Yorkshire Air Ambulance issue 'urgent' safety warning after stone thrown at helicopter
The incident happened in Rotherham earlier this year
Last updated 13th May 2026
Yorkshire Air Ambulance have issued an urgent public safety warning after a stone was thrown at one of their helicopters earlier this year.
This happened as the aircraft was responding to an incident in Rotherham, with a child throwing a missile towards the helicopter as it lifted off.
The same child then ran directly underneath the aircraft, putting themselves in extreme danger.
It's led to the Yorkshire Air Ambulance Charity launching a new public safety campaign to remind people of the safety risks posed by the helicopter.
The incident in Rotherham has also been reported to police.
Pilot Paul Smith, who was involved in the incident in Rotherham and features in the new public safety film, said, “People are naturally curious when they see the helicopter land, but these are highly controlled, dangerous and safety-critical operations."
"Something as small as a stone thrown towards the aircraft, somebody entering the landing area unexpectedly, a drone flying nearby, or a laser being directed at the cockpit can put our crew, patients and members of the public at significant risk.”
YAA CEO Kathryn Marsden OBE added, “Most people are incredibly respectful when they see the helicopter land, but even seemingly small actions around an aircraft can be dangerous."
"The best thing people can do is keep their distance, ensure children are supervised and keep them close, keep dogs on leads and never approach the helicopter unless instructed to do so by YAA crew members.”