Safety Alert Warns First Responders of Hazardous Conditions at Airplane Accident Sites

The National Transportation Safety Board has issued a safety alert warning first responders about hazards posed by ballistic parachute recovery systems when they do not fire before or during impact. The NTSB said these rocket-powered parachutes pose a hazard to responders if the rocket did not activate before or during ground impact. Breaking Defense reports that all Cirrus airplanes include the Cirrus Airframe Parachute System, and similar systems appear on other aircraft types. Responders should look for triangular warning labels on the airframe and avoid areas with red T-shaped handles. The agency also urged responders to contact them immediately once a BPRS is identified on scene.