Anti-gravity (also known as non-gravitational field) is a hypothetical phenomenon of creating a place or object that is free from the force of gravity. I love the word, hypothetical! – Very non-committal. You can play in a sandbox of “theory” and never be wrong. However, the other side of theory is a “proving ground”. So is […]
Building Your Own Anti-Gravity Machine: AHD Using the TerrAdaptor Part 1 Read More »
A jigger system is a mechanical advantage system that uses pulleys to increase the force applied to an object. It is typically used in rescue and rigging operations where multiple people are needed to apply force to an object, such as a stretcher or piece of equipment. The jigger system allows the load to be distributed evenly
The Jigger… What is it? – A Rope Rescue Technician’s Best Friend Read More »
When it comes to ensuring safety, there are a number of factors that need to be taken into consideration. During training sessions, the safety standards could be lower than during rescue operations as trainees may not have the same level of experience and expertise. However, this does not mean that training sessions can be conducted
Rope Rescue Gear and Everything Between! Part 4 – Selecting a System Safety Factor Read More »
Mainline Rescue Systems – A New Course An understanding of mechanical advantage systems — in raising and lower modes — is crucial to all rope rescue technicians. Dealing with Mass and Force is aspects of consequence if not considered during operations. Working with tensioned anchor systems, guying systems, high directionals, load positioning and litter movement
Mainline Rescue Systems – A New Course Read More »
Again, we are using the CMC Clutch as the lowering and or raising device for these pick-off examples. Once all the lines have been set up, it’s time to secure the rope rescue system. First, attach a prusik hitch to each of the lines about two feet above their ends. Connect the pick-off strap to
Rescue Pickoffs Pt 4 – Team Based Pickoffs Read More »
In the following illustrated examples, we are using the Harken CMC Clutch and AZTEK (MA “set of fours”) to effect the rescue pickoff. Since a rappel pick off is a rescue, an independent belay should be used. In these illustrations, we have left off showing the belay line for clarity. If the team has a
Rescue Pickoffs Pt 3 – Rappel Pickoff Read More »
For a Team Based pickoff, the MA is rigged at the top by the team, a ganged-on system is usually needed in order to raise the load. Once the victim has been freed, the team based MA lowers the victim onto the pickoff strap. For a Solo Rescue pickoff, this MA must be rigged by the rescuer. There
Rescue Pickoffs Pt 2 – Accessing the Subject Read More »
Pickoff Overview An unsupported pickoff is rescuing a climber or hiker from a variety of angles. More injuries and deaths occur on slopes that are less than vertical and often require as many technicians as a more high profile vertical rescue. When performing a pickoff rescue, the rescuer is often “powered” by the system, which
Rescue Pickoffs Pt 1 – Suspended or Not Suspended? Read More »
Previous Articles on Rescue Rope A Rescue Rope and Cord Overview Rescue Rope Construction Rescue Rope Frequently Asked Questions Rope Diameter The rope diameter is the width of the rope. The rope diameter is measured in either inches or millimeters. American rope manufacturers typically use inches, while European rope manufacturers use millimeters. The current test
Rescue Rope Specifications and Webbing Overview Read More »
It is not uncommon for me to get a questions pertaining to a list of topics to be covered for training rescue teams. This can vary greatly for obvious reasons.. Each of these topics vary in depth depending on the team, qualifications and goals. Rope rescue is a critical skill for fire departments and search
