The Helicopter Emergency Lift Program, Inc. was started as part of the Rockland County Fire Service Mutual Aid Plan in 1969. The idea that it should be developed into a service of its own was conceived April 3, 1971 on an ominous ledge of High Tor Mountain. It was here that the lives of two badly battered girls hung in the balance of good judgement on the part of their rescuers and transporting to a hospital by helicopter. Both girls although seriously injured, survived and recovered.

With guidance and some financing from industry and the Rockland County Legislature, HELP became a non-profit corporation in 1972. The U.S. Army donated two surplus helicopters to Rockland County in 1974 and one of them was FAA certified, insured and made operational shortly thereafter.

Organized as an emergency service unit, HELP provides its services to Rockland County only in conjunction and cooperation with Emergency Services such as the Office of Fire & Emergency Services, Fire Departments, Police Departments, the Sheriff’s Patrol, Emergency Medical Services and Hospitals. It is completely manned by volunteers, including 3 pilots, from the membership of these organizations whose time and expertise are free of charge. Special training for on the ground and in the air activities is given to all members.

Members of HELP are totally motivated toward being of service in emergency situation to the citizens of Rockland County, the property they hold dear and the physical safety of their families. During HELP’s history, there has never been an instance of personal danger or a situation where HELP was a deterrent by other emergency service methods. Although they receive no financial payment and little recognition for responding and being on call 24 hours a day in all kinds of weather, they do a professional job and are well satisfied with the knowledge that without them there would be no eyes in the sky over Rockland.

You may not be aware of it but you’ve probably looked into some eyes that scan Rockland from the sky. They are the eyes of your County’s policemen, firemen, EMS personnel and the District Attorney’s office. They know what to look for, what action to take in emergency situations and how to deliver the needed services.

We believe HELP is the only program of its kind anywhere. HELP renders a wide range of emergency services. Namely, searching, rescuing, aerial fire fighting, aerial ambulance work, police assistance and other disaster aid.

HELP will continue to uphold its principle of being dedicated to the formation of a safer Rockland County for its present and future citizens.

HELP has recently acquired an InfraRed Camera/FLIR (Forward Looking InfraRed) System, which can be used for surveillance, night vision, and for searches.