Rooftop Helipads - firefighting challenges

[helicopper 1,050]

The medevac crash in MI made we wonder about the decision to place helipads on the rooftop of a buliding, particularly a hospital. In this case, a helicopter crashed and burst into flames on the roof of the 11 story hospital building. According to the article, fuel also leaked into the upper floor of the hospital building complicating the response.

Does anyone know if special provisions are made for firefighting operations at a rooftop helipad? Special standpipes, foam storage, pre-positioned equipment, for example. Did the FD have to hump all its gear up 11 stories while the wreckage burned?

I know that NYC banned rooftop landings after a crash there in the 70's or 80's but many other places still use them including I believe the Albany medical center - perhaps someone from there can provide some info on their plans.

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