What equipment should be preferred for signaling when landing a helicopter?

The preference for colored lights or traffic wands as signaling equipment for helicopter landings is based on their visibility and effectiveness in various conditions. Traffic wands are particularly advantageous because they can be seen from a distance and are bright, making them ideal for attracting the attention of pilots. Their vibrant colors can help distinguish the signal from the surrounding environment, especially in daylight or mixed lighting conditions.

Additionally, traffic wands are easy to handle and provide a dynamic means of communication through movement, which can convey specific instructions to the pilot regarding landing zones or obstacles. The use of colored lights is standard practice in emergency services for their ability to enhance visibility and improve safety when coordinating a landing.

While other signaling options such as smoke signals and flares may have their uses in specific scenarios, they generally do not offer the same level of clarity and controlled signaling as colored lights or traffic wands. For example, smoke signals can be affected by wind, making their visibility unpredictable, and flares can pose fire hazards or may not be seen as clearly, especially during the day. Therefore, colored lights or traffic wands are the best choice for effectively signaling during helicopter landings.