Flight follower for HALO

two people standing in front of helicopter

The Medicine Hat 911 dispatch team, a division of Medicine Hat Fire and Emergency Services, has formed a new partnership with HALO Air Ambulance to strengthen Southern Alberta’s emergency response capabilities.

As HALO’s official flight-following team, Medicine Hat 911 ensures every mission is tracked in real-time, providing oversight that prioritizes safety and swift action.

“This collaboration significantly strengthens our ability to respond effectively to the diverse calls we receive,” says Paul Carolan, CEO of HALO. “From emergency medical scene calls to critical care interfacility transfers, to fire rescue missions, having a dedicated flight-following team ensures our crews are monitored and safe at all times.”

Flight-following is a critical function that involves monitoring the real-time location, flight status, and environmental conditions of an aircraft, ensuring timely responses to any unforeseen issues. This support is vital for HALO, which responds to emergencies ranging from medical scene calls and patient transfers to aerial fire reconnaissance and search and rescue operations.

“Working with HALO allows us to extend our dispatch capabilities to the skies and guarantee crews are supported throughout their missions,” adds Stacy Smith, 911 Superintendant. “It’s a significant responsibility and reflects our commitment to public safety.”

This partnership exemplifies how collaboration between agencies strengthens public safety, ensuring Southern Alberta is prepared for any emergency.