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Policy/Procedure

PURPOSE

The purpose of this procedure is to establish guidelines for the response of fire department personnel and equipment to rope rescue incidents. Because rope rescue operations present a significant danger to fire department personnel, the safe and effective management of these operations require special considerations. This guideline identifies some of the critical issues which must be included in managing these incidents.

TACTICAL CONSIDERATIONS

• Rope rescue incidents occur when a victim is unable to self extricate when trapped at heights or below grade that are outside of normal means of egress.

• Common rope rescue environments include: Industrial facilities, Construction sites, High Rise buildings, Agricultural facilities, Bridges and Natural depressions.

• Due to the inherent dangers associated with these operations, Toledo Fire and Rescue’s Risk Management Profile shall be applied to all rope rescue operations and shall be continuously re-assessed throughout the incident. A phased approach to rope rescue operations which include; Arrival, Pre-rescue operations, Rescue operations, and Termination, can be utilized to safely and effectively mitigate these high-risk / low-frequency events.

• Rope rescue incidents will attract the attention of the media, call for PIO early

UNDER NO CIRCUMSTANCE SHALL ANY PERSONNEL OTHER THAN THE ON-DUTY RESPONDING TECHNICAL RESCUE/SPECIAL OPERATIONS UNITS ATTEMPT TO CONDUCT A ROPE RESCUE.

Incidents involving “JUMPERS” are to be categorized as Rope Rescue incidents.

1. Establish command and provide an initial size-up.

2. Request the response of the Technical Rescue Team through Fire Dispatch.

3. Attempt to make voice contact with the victim.

4. Establish Rescue Sector upon arrival of Technical Rescue Team (see below)

5. Stabilize or secure the victim, when feasible, by lowering a rope or webbing. Do not attempt to hoist or lower any such victim once secured.

6. Assist the Technical Rescue Team with the staging of equipment as directed.

7. Request TPD response for any victim who is combative or appear to be under the influence of any substance.

8. Incidents located in a confined space shall not be entered by first responders.

First arriving Technical Rescue/Special Operations unit that is staffed with a Technical Rescue Qualified Team Leader should be assigned Rescue Sector. Rescue Sector responsibilities include:

• Assuming technical rescue operations control.
• Identifying hazards and critical factors.
• Developing a rescue plan and back-up plan.
• Communicating with and directing resources assigned to Rescue Sector.
• Informing Command of conditions, actions, and needs during all phases of the rescue operation.

Technical Rescue Team personnel refer to Standard Operating Guidelines for High and Low Angle Rope Rescue.

See Also: