Smalls Falls Rope Rescue Training June 9, 2012

We had a great day on (or above) the river for the Smalls Falls rope rescue class. 7 FSAR members and about 25 others participated in the training. We began by breaking into groups, mainline, belay and litter rigging. Each group learned some of the numerous ways to accomplish each task before rotating to the next station. Each evolution was a simulation of what a real rescue would be like. This consisted of lowering the belayed litter and medic/attendant down into one of the falls pools, switching over to a raise/haul system and raising the patient and attendant back to the rim.

This class was unusual because after lunch an EMT-B class joined us for the training. Once we completed the final raise with the patient (Luigi) and litter attendant, the EMT students took over and worked, packaged, and carried the litter off the hill to the ambulance. They also used FSAR’s litter wheel to move the litter, which was a new experience for most.

We were able to complete 4 lower and raise evolutions during the day. Thanks to DK, Paul, Al and Gabe for some great instruction.

DK give an overview of the process

Jeff 'geeks out' with the scarab diagram!

Paul conducts a critique after one of the evolutions.

Al helps rig Gabe's harness.

Jeff rigging for raise

EMT students take over.

Using FSARs litter wheel 

Debrief and critique