Height Rescue with Basket Stretcher: Setup & Safety

OBJECTIVES

Upon completion of this lesson, you will become familiar with:

1. Define the Height Rescue with Basket Stretcher.
2. List the seven materials and equipment which are used in Height Rescue with Basket Stretcher.
3. Describe the setup method of Height Rescue with Basket Stretcher.
4. Describe the rescue method of Height Rescue with Basket Stretcher.
5. Describe the Safety measures of Height Rescue with a Basket Stretcher.

Definition

This technique is used for evacuating unconscious victims from a height.

Materials and Equipment Used

1. Stretcher
2. Rope (50 m)
3. Rope (30 m)
4. Fire hooks
5. Karabiner
6. Sling ropes
7. Rope Roller

Setup Method

1. Set up a ladder so that it reaches the top of the window where the victim is.
2. Create a bearing point by placing a small spar on the second or third rung from the top of the ladder.
3. Fold the 50 m rope in half. Then pass the end of the rope that was folded back through and under the lowest ladder rung and pull it out of the front of the ladder. After that, attach the end of the rope to the bearing point mentioned in step B.
4. Place a fire hook across the rung two or three steps below the bearing point in order to push the ladder away from the building, and tie clove hitches and single hitches on the base and rungs of the ladder.
5. Tie a clove hitch and single hitch on both ends of the stretcher (the area for the head and the area for the feet) with the two sling ropes. Tie a Fuhrer’s knot at the center of the two sling ropes. Then, join together the loops of the two Fuhrer’s Knot with Karabiner.

Rescue Method

1. Tie down the victim on the stretcher.
2. Tie the rescue rope to the karabiner on the stretcher and hang the stretcher down from a ladder rung while rescuers maneuver the rescue rope.
3. The rescuers upstairs hold onto the fire hooks and push the ladder away from the building.
4. The rescuer at the bottom of the ladder secures the rescue rope by stepping on the rung where the rope was passed through in the beginning.
5. Loosen the rescue rope and quietly lower the stretcher to the ground.

Safety Measures

1. Be sure to adjust the lengths of the sling ropes when creating the stretcher so that the head is slightly higher than the feet.
2. Be sure to consider how far rescue ropes extend, and tie the ropes securely.
3. When pushing the edge of the ladder away from the building, be sure that the ladder is stable and push the ladder out carefully.
4. Be sure to lower the stretchers quietly while considering the conditions of the victims. If there are people nearby, have them catch the stretchers.
5. When working on the ladder, be sure that you have a good working posture so that you are able to use two hands.
6. Be sure to maneuver the rescue rope smoothly and carefully.
7. Be sure to use a guide rope if there are any obstacles along the wall where the stretcher will be lowered.
8. When lowering (or raising) the stretcher, be sure that the karabiners (which are attached to the rescue ropes) don’t get turned sideways.
9. Be sure to wear leather gloves when you secure the rescue ropes.

Final words:

Height rescue using a basket stretcher requires careful planning, precise execution, and strict adherence to safety protocols. By understanding the necessary materials, proper setup, and step-by-step rescue method, rescuers can ensure a secure and efficient evacuation.

The use of ropes, karabiners, fire hooks, and sling ropes plays a crucial role in stabilizing the stretcher and maintaining control throughout the descent.

Additionally, following key safety measures—such as adjusting sling rope lengths, securing rescue ropes, and maintaining proper posture—helps prevent accidents and ensures the well-being of both the victim and the rescue team. Effective communication and coordination among team members are essential for a smooth operation.

Regular training and drills are highly recommended to enhance skill and confidence in height rescue scenarios. By following best practices and maintaining vigilance, rescuers can minimize risks and successfully carry out height rescue operations using a basket stretcher with professionalism and precision.

Emma Lee

Emma Lee, an expert in fire safety with years of firefighting and Rescuer experience, writes to educate on arescuer.com, sharing life-saving tips and insights.