A pickoff is a single rescuer technique that allows retrieval of a person stuck on rope. It entails the rescuer climbing up (or rappelling down) to the stuck caver, typically on the same rope that the caver is stuck on and performing a series of connections and weight transfers in order to lower the patient back to the ground, either by rappelling with them or by lowering them down separately. We’ll be covering only the former here in this post.

A pickoff is the riskiest alternative to retrieving a climber on rope partially because it commits the rescuer to similar hazards as the patient. The odds of getting stuck and becoming a 2nd patient are high.

With pickoffs, a stranded caver or climber is a real emergency, both in terms of exposure to hypothermia and suspension trauma. Much less anything that may have contributed to their demise. Thus, this is a small party rescue skill.

Pickoffs are high complexity, low frequency, high consequence maneuvers. Since they don’t happen much skills can drop. Practice this stuff regularly and don’t always use the same gear. See what your minimal gear allotment looks like.

General Pickoff Tips

Virtually all pickoffs involve climbing up to the stuck or unconscious caver, on their rope, and climb “through” their system to get to a point somewhere above them. The patient’s system is almost always loaded and will normally require one if not two weight transfers. Generally, you’ll need to be performing some kind of a short “lift” to get the patient off their system and onto yours.

1. When coming from below, be extra attentive to everything that patient has (in use or not).  Make sure everything is out of the before you start the rescue.
2. If possible, prior to ascending the patients rope, see about building a QAS (Quick Attachment System) for yourself, a third ascender attached to your harness. A very easy way to “bypass” the patient regardless of your own climbing system.
3. Consider the patients gear “Fair Game”.
4. Don’t take shortcuts. Both the stakes and stress are high and it is easy to overlook things.
5. Remember that when you’re connected, the patient and you are using their gear and thus you have multiple attachment points (that you share). You’re required to have at least two (2) and are collectively shared when connected together.
6. Practice moving passed the patient. It’s often awkward at first but will become easier with practice.
7. Use your cowstail properly.
8. Use the patient’s own gear as much as possible.
9. Keep rope housekeeping as a priority. Pickoffs can get messy!
10. Make sure the descender to be in service will handle a second person load.
11. Have an escape plan.
12. Know how to deal with deviations and rebelays.

Cave Rescue Diminishing Loop Counterweight Haul System Overview Connection

This technique is used in small party rescue where the patient needs to be transported up a drop. The only gear used is that which is on your person. The rope length must be over twice the height of the drop. A two-person anchor is mandatory as well as a good efficient pulley. No progress captures are used in the technique as there may be a circumstance where going back down is necessary.

As you’ll see, the mechanical advantage occurs when the system connection is closed between patient and rescuer via a cows tail or lanyard. Thus gaining a 2:1 mechanical advantage system.

 

Cave Rescue Diminishing Loop Active Haul to Changeover

The DLC is a light rigging option that requires little equipment and just, a single rescuer. It’s fast, efficient, can be incredibly simple, and is easy to use under the right conditions (in conjunction with an edge transition plan). The system allows a single patient and rescuer to ascend and can be used either with or without a litter. As with most rope rescue systems, it requires practice to rig and operate efficiently, but it can be an elegant solution under the right conditions.

The DLC can be incredibly efficient when skillfully rigged and executed – but can be problematic if rigged or operated poorly. Addressing the following three conditions will facilitate success:

1. Rig for a free hang. The DLC works efficiently when the rope runs up and over a pulley without contacting walls, edges, or other surfaces. Even a modest amount of friction can make the system difficult or impossible to operate, so care must be taken when rigging to achieve a free hanging condition. Two options for accomplishing this objective (rigging to a high point, or using a series of systems) are discussed in the Edge Problem section. If a free hang is not possible, it may be better to utilize another method other than the DLC.

2. Have enough rope. Since this is a full-length counterbalance system, it requires a rope at least twice the length of the pitch. If rope length is a limiting factor, a standard haul, or a standard counterbalance with the counterweight positioned at the top, may be more appropriate.

3. The rescuer should possess and employ excellent single rope technique skills. In this system, the rescuer serves simultaneously as the haul team and patient attendant. The rescuer must be competent on rope and must have an efficient climbing system. The rescuer must be able to climb rope efficiently, change over from climb to rappel, and from rappel to climb. Additionally, it is useful for the rescuer to know how to change ropes while hanging, to cross knots both while ascending and rappelling. All these skills are more easily accomplished if the climber is using mechanical ascenders for on-rope maneuvers.

 

Single Rope Pickoffs: A Critical SPAR Technique

A fundamental SPAR method is the single rope pickoff, where a rescuer ascends or descends a rope to reach a stranded individual and then safely brings them to the ground. This technique is essential in situations where traditional rescue setups are impractical.

Key Considerations for Single Rope Pickoffs:

• Risk Assessment: Evaluate the situation to ensure the safety of both rescuer and victim.
• Equipment Proficiency: Mastery of ascenders, descenders, and other gear is vital for a successful operation.
• Communication: Maintaining clear communication with team members and the victim is crucial throughout the rescue process.

Regular training in single rope pickoffs enhances a team’s capability to perform under pressure, ensuring readiness for real-world applications.

Integrating SPAR Techniques into Training

To effectively incorporate SPAR methods, rope rescue teams should:

• Conduct Scenario-Based Drills: Simulate various rescue situations to build competence and confidence.
• Emphasize Minimalist Approaches: Train with limited equipment to develop problem-solving skills and adaptability.
• Foster Team Cohesion: Encourage collaboration and trust among team members to enhance operational efficiency.

By embedding SPAR techniques into regular training, teams can ensure that all members are prepared to execute rescues effectively, regardless of the circumstances.

Conclusion

The principles of Small Party Assisted Rescue and single rope pickoffs extend beyond cave rescue, offering valuable strategies for all rope rescue teams. By embracing these techniques, teams can enhance their self-reliance, adaptability, and proficiency, ultimately improving their ability to save lives in diverse and challenging environments.

For a comprehensive exploration of these concepts, including visual demonstrations and detailed analyses, visit the full article on Rigging Lab Academy.

Peace on your Days

Lance