Fundemental Rope Rescue Training for First Responders
ETI’s Level 1 High Angle Rescue course teaches the fundamentals of high angle rescue and evacuation techniques. Level I training emphasizes basic raising and lowering systems, equipment options, safety systems, the use of highlines, and patient packaging and handling techniques. Participants learn basic rope rescue techniques and learn how to work effectively with others to initiate and complete challenging rescues under a variety of conditions.
The training is an intense learning experience designed to give emergency responders a solid working knowledge of high angle rope rescue skills. The knowledge and skills learned in this course apply to roadside situations as well as backcountry environments. The curriculum meets the requirements for NFPA 1670 – 2004 edition Rope Rescue Technician, and is essential training for people working with rescue teams, fire departments, government agencies, and other organizations working in high angle environments. The major concepts taught during the course are listed below:
Safety
- General scene safety
- Rescuer safety-the new approach
- Rope and web for rescue
- Personal protective equipment
- Equipment ratings and what they mean
- Knots for rescue work
- Load release hitches
- Pre-planning
- Anticipating problems
- The conservative approach
Rescue System Basics
- Rescue physics
- Rescue Anchors
- Multi point anchors
- Intro to bolting techniques
- Edge protection methods
- Descending and ascending devices
- Brake systems for rescue
- Rappelling techniques
- Ascending techniques
Working with Litters
- Injuries at height
- Fall suspension dangers
- Stabilizing the fall victim
- Litter packaging
- Litter rigging for low angle terrain
- Litter rigging for vertical evacuation
- Litter tending techniques
- Edge techniques
Team Response
- Team structure and leadership
- Scene size up
- Organizing resources
- Rescuer safety
- Rescue priorities
- Medical priorities
- Effective communications
Low Tech Rescues
- The pick off
- The assisted rappel
- Belay escape and self Rescue
Lowering Systems
- System components
- The main Line package
- The belay line package
- Knot passing techniques
- Evaluating the system
Raising Systems
- The change over
- The main Line package
- The belay line package
- Mechanical advantage systems
Highlines
- Artificial high directionals
- Messenger delivery techniques
- Tag lines
- Carriage systems
- Reeve type highlines
- The set up
- Communication-making it work
Putting It All Together
- Developing improvisational skills
- High angle problem solving
- Training and evaluation
Course Format
Course Cost
The cost varies depending upon the location and number of participants. Each of our training courses can be tailored or modified to meet the specific requirements of the contracting organization. Please contact our office for a detailed proposal.
Scheduling A Course
Courses are scheduled on a contract basis and can be conducted in any suitable location where adequate terrain is available for training purposes. To arrange a training program with us, we require a minimum enrollment of 10 - 15 students. If you are not able to meet the minimum enrollment requirements, sponsoring a course is a great option. By making spaces available to others in your area, minimum enrollments can usually be met. Contact our office for detailed information about scheduling a training program for your organization.