Drop Loop Haul with Petzl I’D and ASAP: Swift Solutions for Urgent Rescues In critical rescue scenarios, where every second counts, the drop loop haul technique offers a reliable and efficient method for accessing and evacuating victims. Using the Petzl I’D descender in tandem with the Petzl ASAP, this system provides both control and safety, […]
Drop Loop Haul with Petzl I’D and ASAP Read More »
The year was 1983, and like so many others in the Portland area, we felt invincible. We were young, eager, and ready for a challenge. The plan seemed simple enough: climb Mt. Hood, ski back down, grab lunch, and crack a beer before the afternoon was over. Classic Portlandia thinking. Walking into the climber hut
My Life Is About to Change Read More »
The Petzl Ascension is a robust handled ascender designed for efficient rope ascents and occasional hauling tasks. Its ergonomic molded handle ensures a comfortable yet powerful grip, while the toothed cam with a self-cleaning slot maintains performance across various conditions, including frozen or dirty ropes. The device features lower and upper holes tailored for attaching
Basic Ascent with Petzl Ascension Read More »
CMC MPD: A Belay Device or a Pulley System? The CMC Multi-Purpose Device (MPD) is a groundbreaking piece of equipment designed to serve multiple functions in rope rescue and rigging systems. Combining the capabilities of a belay device and a pulley system, the MPD simplifies rigging operations by reducing the need for multiple pieces of
CMC MPD Belay Device or Pulley System Read More »
PPE Inspection for Carabiners In rigging, rescue, and other technical operations, carabiners are more than just connectors; they are lifelines. As part of your Personal Protective Equipment (PPE), carabiners play a critical role in maintaining the integrity of your system. Regular and thorough inspections are not optional—they are essential for ensuring the safety and reliability
PPE Inspection for Carabiners Read More »
How the Petzl Croll Works The Petzl Croll is primarily used as part of an ascending system, often paired with tools like the Petzl ASCENSION (handled ascender) and a foot loop. This combination allows for efficient upward movement on a static rope. Step-by-Step Operation Attachment: Attach the Croll to the rope and secure it using
How the Petzl Croll Works Read More »
Critical Thinking in Rescue In technical rescue, every decision can mean the difference between success and failure, or even life and death. Rescue scenarios are inherently complex, dynamic, and fraught with uncertainty. Whether it’s navigating unpredictable environments, evaluating equipment, or managing a team under pressure, one skill stands above all: critical thinking. Critical thinking isn’t
Critical Thinking in Rescue Read More »
I want to say that I am extremely excited to say… “hey!… I know these guys!” Brent McGregor, Eddy Cartaya and Tom Wood. Brent (climber, explorer and photog) lives here in Sisters and was a huge help in bringing Eddy Cartaya‘s Rigging Lab Academy course (Cave Rescue (Small Party Assisted) Single Rope Pickoffs) to prominence
Glacier Cave Explorers Read More »
The Six-Week Rule: Transforming Skills Through Focused Commitment In the process of mastering new skills, the greatest obstacle is often unlearning old habits that no longer serve us. The Six-Week Rule offers a structured approach to skill acquisition by emphasizing the necessity of focused practice and intentional change. This principle challenges individuals to leave behind
In rescue operations, the counterbalance technique is a fundamental method that leverages human weight to facilitate the movement of loads, such as rescuing individuals from challenging environments. This approach is particularly advantageous due to its simplicity and minimal equipment requirements. Understanding the Counterbalance Technique The counterbalance system operates on the principle of using
Counterbalance Rescue Technique Read More »
