In the event of a helicopter incapacitation after a hard landing, the emergency shutdown procedure is:

• A. Throttle off, fuel off, battery off, rotor break applied
• B. Throttle off, fuel off, battery on, rotor break applied
• C. Fuel off, throttle off, battery on, rotor brake applied
• D. Throttle off, fuel off, battery off, rotor break applied

Answer: (D)

When a helicopter is incapacitated after a hard landing, the priority is to eliminate energy sources and secure the rotor to prevent further harm. Start by turning the throttle off to stop engine RPM quickly, effectively shutting down the propulsion source. Then cut the fuel supply to prevent any remaining fuel from feeding a potential fire. Next, switch the battery off to remove electrical power and minimize the risk of sparks or energized circuits after the crash. Finally, apply the rotor brake to lock the rotor and stop windmilling, which reduces the chance of blade contact or movement caused by residual wind or shifts in the aircraft. Leaving power on or not securing the rotor would increase fire risk or the potential for dangerous rotor movement, so this sequence best reduces those hazards.