The Rope Rescue Team plays a crucial role in search and rescue operations. Their specialized skills and equipment enable them to access, stabilize, and evacuate individuals from locations that would otherwise be unreachable using standard rescue techniques.
Primary Functions of the Rope Rescue Team
- Technical Access: Rope Rescue Teams are trained to reach and operate in difficult-to-access areas, such as cliffs, canyons, and steep embankments. This access is often essential for locating and rescuing subjects in remote or hazardous environments.
- Subject Stabilization and Evacuation: Once a subject is located, the team is responsible for stabilizing them medically and physically. They use rope systems and rescue equipment to safely lift, lower, or traverse with the victim to a safe location for further medical treatment.
- Safety Management: Rope Rescue Teams manage the safety of both victims and rescuers by establishing secure anchor points, monitoring rope systems, and ensuring proper use of personal protective equipment. They perform risk assessments and adapt procedures to changing conditions.
Rope Rescue Team members undergo rigorous training in knot tying, rope systems, rappelling, ascending, belaying, and rescue techniques. They are skilled in using specialized equipment such as harnesses, carabiners, pulleys, anchors, and stretchers designed for vertical and confined space rescues.
The presence of a Rope Rescue Team ensures that search and rescue operations can address a wider range of scenarios, including those involving high elevations, or hazardous descent/ascent paths. Their expertise enhances the speed, safety, and success rate of rescue missions.
The Rope Rescue Team is an indispensable component of modern search and rescue operations. Their specialized skills, equipment, and training enable them to perform complex rescues in challenging environments, safeguarding both subjects and fellow rescuers. By extending the reach and effectiveness of emergency response, Rope Rescue Teams help save lives in situations where conventional methods fall short.
Rope Rescuer
Among the specialized roles within SAR teams, the rope rescuer role is crucial for ensuring the safety and success of missions involving steep slopes, cliffs, ravines, and other challenging environments.
Key Responsibilities of the Rope Rescuer
• Rope rescuers are trained professionals who specialize in the use of ropes and associated gear to access, stabilize, and evacuate individuals from hazardous locations. Their core responsibilities include:
• Rigging and Anchoring: Setting up reliable rope systems using natural or artificial anchors to ensure safe passage and rescue operations.
• Technical Access: Descending or ascending cliffs, ravines, or steep slopes to reach stranded or injured individuals.
• Patient Packaging: Securing victims in stretchers or harnesses for safe movement over vertical or unstable terrain.
• Team Coordination: Working closely with other SAR members, communicating effectively, and ensuring everyone’s safety during high-risk operations.
• Equipment Maintenance: Inspecting, maintaining, and managing ropes, carabiners, pulleys, and other gear to prevent accidents.
Essential Skills and Training
Rope rescuers must possess a diverse skill set, honed through rigorous training and practice:
• Technical Rope Skills: Proficiency in knots, belaying, rappelling, ascending, and constructing mechanical advantage systems.
• Risk Assessment: Ability to evaluate terrain, weather conditions, and anchor stability to minimize hazards.
• Medical Knowledge: Basic first aid and trauma care to stabilize patients during extraction.
• Physical Fitness: Strength, endurance, and agility to operate efficiently in demanding environments.
• Problem Solving: Adapting to unpredictable scenarios and improvising solutions under pressure.
Challenges Faced in Wilderness Environments
Operating in wilderness settings introduces unique difficulties for rope rescuers:
• Unpredictable Terrain: Natural features may lack suitable anchors, requiring creativity and expertise in rigging.
• Weather Hazards: Rain, snow, wind, and extreme temperatures can compromise safety and complicate rescues.
• Limited Resources: Teams often carry only essential gear, making efficiency and resourcefulness vital.
• Communication Barriers: Remote locations may hinder radio signals, necessitating clear hand signals or alternate communication methods.
• Fatigue and Stress: Prolonged operations in harsh conditions demand resilience and teamwork.
Safety Protocols and Best Practices
To maximize safety and effectiveness, rope rescuers adhere to strict protocols:
• Conducting thorough risk assessments before engaging in rope operations.
• Double-checking knots, harnesses, and anchor points for security.
• Ensuring all team members are briefed on procedures and emergency contingencies.
• Maintaining constant communication throughout the rescue.
• Documenting operations for training and review.
The rope rescuer plays a pivotal role in wilderness search and rescue, bridging the gap between unreachable victims and safety. Their expertise, professionalism, and adaptability are essential to overcoming the formidable challenges posed by remote and rugged environments. With ongoing training and a commitment to safety, rope rescuers continue to save lives and uphold the highest standards in SAR operations.
Required Knowledge and Skills
Technical Rope Rescue
| Topic | Skill | Criteria |
| Harness and PPE | Harnesses | Show the ability to wear the harness, ensure that it fits snugly but allows for mobility. Adjust the straps to distribute the load evenly across the torso and legs. Inspect the harness for signs of wear, damage, or defects. Check the stitching, buckles, and webbing for integrity. Be able to assist a team member in donning a harness and perform a buddy check to ensure the harness is worn correctly. Verify that all buckles are secure, straps are adjusted, and attachment points are properly connected. |
| Helmet | Ensure the helmet is properly fitted and secured with the chin strap. Be able to properly attach a head lamp to the helmet. Regularly check for any signs of damage and replace if necessary. | |
| Gloves | Wear gloves before handling ropes or equipment. Ensure they fit properly and provide a good grip. Periodically inspect for wear and tear. | |
| Knee Pads | Know how to don knee pads and describe why they are necessary. | |
| Footwear and Clothing | Explain the need for proper footwear and clothing to ensure freedom of movement while providing adequate protection. | |
| Vortex System | Site Assessment | Show ability to assess the rescue site. Identify potential hazards, anchor points, and the best location for the Vortex system. |
| Assembling Legs | Demonstrate assembling the legs and attaching the appropriate feet. | |
| Installing Head Assembly | Assemble the system by attaching the head assembly to the legs. | |
| Stabilizing the System | Show the ability to stabilize the system by spreading the legs evenly to form a stable tripod and adjusting the leg angles and lengths to ensure stability. Use back stays and hobble straps to finish securing the system. | |
| Powered Winch | Be able to set up and operate the winch attached to the tripod. | |
| Ropes | Rope Types | Describe the difference between static and dynamic ropes and their uses in rope rescue. |
| Safety Inspection | Be able to perform safety inspections and identify worn and damaged rope. (need more Info) | |
| Rope Strength | Demonstrate understanding of minimum breaking strength of each type and size of rope. | |
| Anchor Points | Location: Strength and Stability | Be able to select anchor points location for strength and stability: The anchor point must be strong enough to hold the weight and forces involved in the rescue. It should be stable and not prone to shifting or collapsing. |
| Accessibility | Show the ability to determine the accessibility of anchor points: The anchor point should be easily accessible to the rescuers. It should not be in a hazardous or difficult-to-reach area and have room for the team to work the ropes. | |
| Safety Inspection | Capable of inspecting an anchor point for safety: The anchor point should be safe for both the rescuers and the individuals being rescued. It should not pose any additional risks. | |
| Anchor Straps | Build Anchor | Demonstrate the ability to build an anchor using an Anchor Strap. The location should be high enough to keep hardware off the ground and leave room to run the system. |
| Test and Safety Inspection | Show how to test and safety inspect the anchor. | |
| Wrap-3-Pull-2 Anchors | Proper Knot | Show the ability to tie a Water Knot. |
| Build Anchor | Demonstrate the ability to build a Wrap-3-Pull-2 anchor. The location should be high enough to keep hardware off the ground and leave room to run the system. | |
| Test and Safety Inspection | Show how to test and safety inspect the anchor. | |
| Multi-Point Anchors | Build Anchor | Demonstrate techniques to create effective multi-point anchors in rope rescue system. |
| Test and Safety Inspection | Show how to test and safety inspect the anchor system. | |
| Dual Mains | Setup Tripod | Safely set up the Arizona Vortex (pass certification of Vortex System section above) |
| Rigging the Ropes | Attach each rope to its anchor point using appropriate knots and hardware and MPD checking the ropes for damage or wear. | |
| Test and Safety Inspection | Show how to test and safety inspect the Dual Mains system. | |
| 3 to 1 System | Build System | Demonstrate the proper construction of a 3-in-1 system. |
| Test and Safety Inspection | Show how to test and safety inspect the 3-in-1 system. | |
| Operate System | Show how to properly operate a 3-in-1 system to lift a load. | |
| 5 to 1 System | Build System | Demonstrate the proper construction of a 5-in-1 system. |
| Test and Safety Inspection | Show how to test and safety inspect the 5-in-1 system. | |
| Operate System | Show how to properly operate a 5-in-1 system to lift a load. | |
| Prusik Minding Pulley | Identify Prusik Minding Pulley | Show the difference between a Prusik Minding Pulley and other types of pullies. Describe the function of this type of pulley and its uses. |
| Safety Inspection | Be able to inspect the pulley for wear, damage, or malfunction. | |
| Rock Fall Mitigation | Understand Risk | Understand the risks rock falls and the impact on rope rescue operations. Be able to conduct thorough site assessments to identify potential rock fall hazards |
| Risk Mitigation | Be able to reduce risk of rock falls by strategically positioning rescuers in locations less susceptible to rock falls. Ensure all rescuers wear appropriate protective equipment to safeguard against rock impacts. | |
| Communication | Maintain open lines of communication to warn of potential rock fall incidents. | |
| Rope Rescue Communications | Commands | Know the commands used in rope rescue. |
| Response | Discuss the proper response to a command. |
Line Boss
Graham County Search and Rescue uses a Dual Main system for rope rescue. In charge of each line is a Line Boss. The Line Boss has a leadership role in rope rescue missions.
Responsibilities
The Line Boss is a trained individual responsible for managing a line during rope rescue scenarios. Their duties include:
• System Setup: Properly rigging the Mult Purpose Device (MPD) in the rope rescue system, ensuring all connections are secure and the device is set up according to manufacturer and SAR team guidelines.
• Load Management: Monitoring the load on the rope, communicating with team members, and adjusting the MPD as needed during raising, lowering, or belaying operations.
• Safety Oversight: Maintaining situational awareness to prevent accidents, checking rope compatibility, and ensuring the system is free of obstructions or hazards.
• Communication: Serving as a key point of contact during operations, relaying information between rescuers, command staff, and other team members to coordinate movement and ensure safety.
• Troubleshooting: Responding to any issues with the system, such as rope jams or device malfunction, and implementing corrective actions quickly and efficiently.
Best Practices
• Training and Competence: Regularly participate in rope rescue training to maintain proficiency.
• Pre-Operation Checks: Inspect the MPD, ropes, and ancillary equipment before each use for damage, wear, or improper setup.
• Clear Communication: Use standardized commands and maintain clear lines of communication with all team members.
• Continuous Monitoring: Keep hands on the device and eyes on the rope and load at all times during operation.
Required Knowledge and Skills
Technical Rope Rescue
| Topic | Skill | Criteria |
| Multi-Purpose Device | Anchor MPD | Demonstrate the ability to secure the MPD to a solid anchor point |
| Inserting Rope | Demonstrate the ability to insert a rope into the MPD, ensuring the rope is correctly threaded through the device | |
| Load Set | Demonstrate closing the MPD and engaging the locking mechanism | |
| Controlling Descent | Demonstrate the ability to release the handle of the MPD to begin the descent using controlled movements to manage the descent speed. Demonstrate the use of the auto-lock feature to engage an immediate stop. | |
| Raising Load | Demonstrate the ability to use the MPD to raise a load efficiently. | |
| Safety Inspection | Demonstrate the ability to inspect the MPD for wear, damage, or malfunction. | |
| Extra-friction Control | Demonstrate how to apply extra friction to control decent with heavy loads. |
Safety
In rope rescue scenarios the Safety Officer plays a critical role in managing risks, acting as the primary advocate for the safety of all personnel and rescuers involved in the operation.
Key Responsibilities
• Hazard Assessment: The Safety Officer is responsible for conducting ongoing assessments of the rescue environment, identifying potential hazards such as unstable ground, falling debris, weather changes, and hazardous plants or animals. This includes evaluating rope systems, anchor points, and equipment for integrity and suitability.
• Risk Mitigation: After identifying hazards, the Safety Officer recommends and enforces measures to minimize risks. This may involve rerouting rope systems, mandating the use of specific personal protective equipment (PPE), or postponing operations if conditions become unsafe.
• Monitoring Operations: Throughout the rescue, the Safety Officer continuously monitors all activities, ensuring that standard operating procedures and safety protocols are strictly followed. They have the authority to halt operations if unsafe practices are observed.
• Communication: The Safety Officer serves as a communication bridge between the Incident Commander, team leaders, and rescuers. They relay safety concerns, updates on environmental conditions, and changes in operational plans.
Essential Skills and Qualifications
• In-depth knowledge of rope rescue techniques and equipment
• Strong situational awareness and hazard recognition abilities
• Effective communication and leadership skills
• Experience in wilderness search and rescue operations
• Ability to make quick, sound decisions under pressure
The Safety Officer holds the authority to stop any aspect of the rescue operation if an imminent risk to life or safety is identified. This authority is supported by the incident command structure and is critical for preventing accidents and ensuring the well-being of all participants.
Required Knowledge and Skills
Technical Rope Rescue
| Topic | Skill | Criteria |
| Rope Rescue Safety | Hazard Assessment | Know how to conduct ongoing assessments of the rescue environment, identifying potential hazards such as unstable ground, falling debris, weather changes, and hazardous plants or animals. |
| Evaluate Rope Systems | Show how to evaluate rope systems, anchor points, and equipment for integrity and suitability. This includes Rope Rescuer’s PPE | |
| Risk Mitigation | Be able to identify hazards and minimize risks. | |
| Monitor Operations | Demonstrate your ability to continuously monitor all activities, ensuring that standard operating procedures and safety protocols are strictly followed. Exercise your authority to halt operations if unsafe practices are observed. |
Edgeman
One of the most crucial roles on the Rope Rescue Team is that of the Edgeman; the individual charged with managing the edge, where ropes transition from the flat surface to vertical descent. The Edgeman serves as a linchpin for the entire rope rescue operation, ensuring the integrity of the system, the safety of personnel, and the efficient movement of rescue loads.
The Role of the Edgeman
The title Edgeman may sound simple, but the responsibilities are anything but. The edge is the point at which ropes move from a safe, horizontal anchor zone to the vertical plane, often over rock, concrete, or other abrasive surfaces that can threaten rope integrity. The Edgeman’s job is to manage this critical transition. Their duties include:
• Protecting the Rope: The Edgeman must ensure that ropes are adequately shielded from sharp surfaces, friction, and environmental hazards. This can involve deploying edge protection devices such as pads, rollers, or specialized sheaths.
• Communication: Serving as the voice at the edge, the Edgeman maintains constant communication with the rescue team below, the rigging crew above, and command personnel. They relay critical information about rope movement, load status, and any immediate hazards.
• Managing Traffic: On busy rescue scenes, multiple ropes and personnel may be working in close proximity. The Edgeman orchestrates the flow of rescuers, equipment, and patients across the edge to prevent entanglement or unsafe practices.
• Monitoring Rope Systems: The Edgeman tracks the progress of raising or lowering operations, observes rope behavior, and intervenes if there is evidence of excessive friction, rope damage, or operational inefficiency.
• Safety Oversight: In many respects, the Edgeman acts as a safety officer at the edge; constantly vigilant, ready to halt operations at the first sign of danger.
Skills and Attributes of a Successful Edgeman
While technical rope skills are essential, the Edgeman’s effectiveness rests just as much on their ability to remain composed under pressure and make rapid, informed decisions. Key qualities include:
• Attention to Detail: The edge is rife with potential hazards, many of which are subtle. The Edgeman must notice every small change such as a rope’s position, a fraying sheath, a shifting anchor point.
• Strong Communication Skills: The ability to issue clear commands, relay observations, and coordinate with a diverse team is paramount. Miscommunication can lead to critical errors in a rescue scenario.
• Physical Dexterity: The work is often performed in awkward, cramped, or exposed locations. Agility and strength help the Edgeman deploy protections, manage ropes, and assist teammates.
• Problem-Solving Ability: Every edge is different. Surfaces, angles, and obstacles vary wildly from one rescue to another, demanding creativity and adaptability.
• Leadership: The Edgeman’s tone and decisiveness can set the emotional climate for the entire operation, especially during high-stress moments.
Edge Management Techniques
The Edgeman employs a variety of strategies and tools to safeguard the rope and facilitate the rescue operation:
Edge Protection Devices
• Edge Pads: Made from durable material, these pads are placed between the rope and abrasive surfaces to minimize friction and prevent cutting or abrasion.
• Rollers: Designed to allow the rope to move smoothly over the edge, rollers decrease friction and prolong rope life, especially helpful for heavy loads or repeated operations.
• Tubular Webbing and Hose: Sometimes, the simplest solution is a section of old fire hose or heavy-duty webbing, laid over rocks or concrete.
• Custom-Protectors: In some cases, teams fabricate specialized edge protection using foam, carpet, or reinforced plastic cut to fit challenging terrain.
Rope Management
• Pre-Rigging: The Edgeman ensures that ropes are correctly threaded, knots are secure, and lines are free of twists or tangles before the operation begins.
• Active Adjustment: As the rescue progresses, ropes may shift or rub against new surfaces. The Edgeman actively adjusts protections and rope placement.
• Monitoring Rope Movement: Whether lowering or raising, the Edgeman tracks how the rope interacts with the edge and intervenes if needed.
Safety Procedures
• Constant Vigilance: The Edgeman never leaves the edge unattended and regularly inspects protections and rope condition.
• Emergency Protocols: In case of rope damage or system failure, the Edgeman is prepared to halt operations and initiate backup procedures.
• Patient Handling: When subjects are brought up or lowered, the Edgeman helps guide litters, harnesses, or rescue baskets smoothly over the edge.
Training
Becoming an effective Edgeman requires rigorous training, including formal courses in rope rescue operations, hands-on practice in varied environments, and continuous education on new equipment and techniques. Many organizations, such as fire departments, search and rescue teams, and industrial response units, have their own standards and certification processes. Core curriculum typically includes:
• Basic and advanced rope rescue techniques
• Knot tying and anchoring systems
• Mechanical advantage systems
• Edge protection strategies
• Rescue rigging and patient packaging
• Safety and risk management
• Scenario-based training exercises
Ongoing training is essential, as real-world rescue situations often present novel challenges and require up-to-date knowledge.
Common Challenges and Solutions
No two rescue edges are the same, and each presents its own set of obstacles. Some common challenges include:
• Unstable Surfaces: Loose rocks or crumbling concrete can threaten both the rope and the rescuers. The Edgeman may need to stabilize the area or shift to a safer location.
• Sharp or Abrasive Edges: Sometimes the edge is too sharp for standard protections. The Edgeman might layer multiple devices or improvise with available materials.
• Limited Space: On narrow ledges or confined roofs, the Edgeman must carefully choreograph the movement of ropes and personnel.
• Inclement Weather: Rain, snow, or extreme heat can complicate edge management, making surfaces slippery or rapidly degrading equipment.
• Complex Rope Systems: Multi-rope scenarios, such as highlines or tensioned systems, require advanced coordination and extra oversight.
The Edgeman’s Place in the Rescue Team
While every member of a rope rescue crew is critical, the Edgeman is often seen as the Guardian of the Edge. Their vigilance and expertise act as a buffer against the unpredictable dangers of vertical environments. They are both technicians and sentinels, blending mechanical skills with intuitive risk assessment.
The Edgeman stands at the crossroads of safety and danger, their hands and eyes focused on the moment where the world tilts from horizontal to vertical. In rope rescue, their role is indispensable. Through careful edge management, clear communication, and unwavering attention to detail, the Edgeman ensures that every operation, from the simplest descent to the most complex multi-rope rescue, is performed with maximum safety and efficiency. In the evolving world of technical rescue, the art and science of edge management remain at the heart of saving lives where few dare to tread.
Required Knowledge and Skills
Knots
| Topic | Skill | Criteria |
| Edgeman Knots | Double Fisherman’s bend | Tie a Double Fisherman’s bend, properly dressed, and recognizable. Add a backup to this knot. Describe the uses, strengths, and weaknesses of this knot. |
| Figure Eight Follow-Through Around an Object | Tie a Figure Eight Follow-Through Around an Object, properly dressed, and recognizable. Describe the uses, strengths, and weaknesses of this knot. | |
| Inline Figure Eight on a Bight | Tie an Inline Figure Eight on a Bight, properly dressed, and recognizable. Describe the uses, strengths, and weaknesses of this knot. | |
| Bowline | Tie a Bowline, properly dressed, and recognizable. Add a backup to this knot. Describe the uses, strengths, and weaknesses of this knot. | |
| Double Long-Tail Bowline | Tie a Double Long-Tail Bowline, properly dressed, and recognizable. Describe the uses, strengths, and weaknesses of this knot. | |
| Snap Bowline | Tie a Snap Bowline, properly dressed, and recognizable. Describe the uses, strengths, and weaknesses of this knot. |
Stretcher Transportation
| Topic | Skill | Criteria |
| Skedco Rope Rescue | Stokes Basket Rigging | Show how to properly attach the Stokes Basket into a rope rescue system |
Technical Rope Rescue
| Topic | Skill | Criteria |
| Travel Restrict | Setup Travel Restrict | Create a Travel Restrict system by using anchor points, restraint lanyards, with proper harness and connectors. |
| Fall Protection | Setup Fall Protection | Set up proper fall protection and know when to use it. Know the strengths and weakness of this system. |
| Set of 4s AZTEK | Used as Travel Restrict | Demonstrate how to use the AZTEC as a travel restrict. |
| Used for Repel | Show how to use the AZTEC for rappelling. | |
| Hold Load | Be able to use the AZTEK to hold a load when adding additional rope and to pass a knot. | |
| Lower Load | Show how to lower a load using the AZTEK | |
| Safety Inspection | Be able to inspect the Set of 4s AZTEK for wear, damage, or malfunction. | |
| Edge Protection | Select materials | Select appropriate edge protection device or materials |
| Deploy Edge Protection | Properly place the edge protection securing it with rope or webbing. Use personal fall protection while working near edges. | |
| Monitor Edge Protection | Show how to continuously monitor the edge protection |
Down Rope Rescuer
The Down Rope Rescuer is a trained member of a rope rescue team who descends or is lowered on rope systems to reach, assess, and assist subjects in difficult-to-access locations. This individual operates below the anchor point, often in vertical or near-vertical environments such as cliffs, ravines, or canyons.
Key Responsibilities
• Initial Contact and Assessment: The Down Rope Rescuer is typically the first to reach the subject. Upon arrival, they assess the subject’s condition, provide immediate medical care if necessary, and determine the safest and most effective means of evacuation.
• Subject Stabilization: If the subject is injured or unable to move, the rescuer stabilizes them using first aid and secures them to prevent further harm. This may involve fitting a harness, helmet, or other protective equipment.
• Communication: The Down Rope Rescuer maintains clear communication with the team above, relaying information about the subject’s condition, environmental hazards, and equipment needs. Effective communication is essential for coordinating the next steps in the rescue.
• Rigging and Packaging: The rescuer assists in rigging systems for lifting or lowering the subject, such as attaching the subject to a litter or harness. They ensure all connections are secure and that the subject is ready for movement.
• Guiding the Evacuation: During the raise or lower, the Down Rope Rescuer monitors the subject’s safety, addresses obstacles, and manages the movement to minimize risk. They may reposition themselves to guide the litter or provide hands-on support.
• Personal Safety: The rescuer is responsible for their own safety, using correct personal protective equipment (PPE), checking knots and harnesses, and following established protocols. Their actions set an example for the rest of the team.
Required Skills and Training
• Technical rope skills (ascending, descending, knot tying, anchor building)
• Wilderness first aid and patient assessment
• Situational awareness and risk assessment
• Effective communication and teamwork
• Physical fitness and adaptability to harsh environments
The Down Rope Rescuer’s expertise is crucial for the success of rope-based SAR missions. They bridge the gap between the subject and the rest of the rescue team, ensuring that the subject receives timely care and is safely transported to safety. Their actions can make a significant difference in the outcome of wilderness emergencies.
Next to the Rope Boss the Down Rope Rescuer is the most skilled and trained role on the rope team.
Required Knowledge and Skills
Knots
| Topic | Skill | Criteria |
| Rope Rescuer Knots | Square Knot | Tie a Square Knot, properly dressed, and recognizable. Describe the uses, strengths, and weaknesses of this knot. |
| Clove hitch | Tie a Clove hitch, properly dressed, and recognizable. Describe the uses, strengths, and weaknesses of this knot. | |
| Girth hitch | Tie a Girth hitch, properly dressed, and recognizable. Describe the uses, strengths, and weaknesses of this knot. | |
| Munter hitch | Tie a Munter hitch, properly dressed, and recognizable. Describe the uses, strengths, and weaknesses of this knot. |
Technical Rope Rescue
| Topic | Skill | Criteria |
| ASAP | Set up | Demonstrate the setup of the ASAP by properly attaching it to the rope and your harness. Test the ASAP to ensure it is functioning and will lock correctly. |
| Descent | Be able to descend with the ASAP maintaining a steady pace to allow the device to track your progress effectively. | |
| Safety Inspection | Be able to inspect the ASAP for wear, damage, or malfunction. | |
| Petzl ID | Set up | Show the ability to set up the Petzl ID by inserting the rope into the device, close the safety gate and ensure it is securely locked. Attach the device to the harness using a locking carabiner. Double-check all connections and perform a function test by pulling on the rope to ensure the device locks properly. |
| Descent | Perform a basic descent with the Petzl ID safely | |
| Safety Inspection | Be able to inspect the Petzl ID for wear, damage, or malfunction. | |
| Ascenders | Ascend Using Prusik | Be able to ascend a rope using two Prusiks. |
| Rescue Pickoff | AZTEC Rescue Pickoff | Demonstrate how to do a Rescue Pickoff using the AZTEC |
| Descend a Dual Main System | Setup for Descent | Select and properly use appropriate harness and PPE (See Harness and PPE). |
| Approach System | Show how to properly approach edge while attached to Travel Restrict | |
| Safety Inspection and Load Test | Properly attach harness to the two main ropes. Perform safety inspection and load test. | |
| Evaluate Hazards | Evaluate surroundings for prospective hazards. Maneuver around system specific and environmental obstacles | |
| Perform Descent | Properly operates the descent control device stopping suspended by system with hands free, when instructed. Know how to stay within the footprint of the Vortex system. | |
| Communications | Know the commands used during a descent and when to use them and what to do when a command is issued. | |
| Ascend a Dual Main System | Select Equipment | Select and properly use appropriate harness and PPE |
| Attach Ascending Equipment | Properly attach the ascending equipment to the fixed rope and harness. Secure self to fixed rope system by means of ascend control device(s) with at least 2 points of contact. | |
| Test and Safety Inspection | Perform a load test prior to life loading the system. Maneuver around system specific and environmental obstacles. Evaluate surroundings for prospective hazards and environmental obstacles. | |
| Ascend | Ascend fixed rope a minimum of 20 feet in a controlled efficient manner. Stop on a rope, suspended by system with hands free, when instructed. Know how to stay within the footprint of the Vortex system. | |
| Communications | Know the commands used during an ascent and when to use them and what to do when a command is issued. | |
| Rappel Fixed Rescue System | Setup for Descent | Select and properly use appropriate harness and PPE (See Harness and PPE). Properly attach the appropriate descending equipment the fixed rope and harness |
| Evaluate hazards | Evaluate surroundings for prospective hazards. Maneuver around system specific and environmental obstacles | |
| Safety Inspection | Perform safety inspection and load test | |
| Perform Descent | Properly operates the descent control device stopping suspended by system with hands free, when instructed. Know how to stay within the footprint of the Vortex system. | |
| Communications | Know the commands used during a descent and when to use them and what to do when a command is issued. |
Rope Rescue Leader
The Rope Rescue Leader is the field-level technical lead responsible for planning, supervising, and safely executing rope rescue operations during wilderness search and rescue incidents.
A Rope Rescue Leader should be able to receive an assignment, complete a structured size-up, produce a safe rescue action plan, brief the team, supervise system construction and safety checks, manage the operation through completion, adapt to changing conditions, and transition the patient to transport without losing accountability or command communication.
Primary Responsibilities
• Conduct the technical size-up: Evaluate terrain, fall exposure, weather, access and egress, anchor options, rockfall or edge hazards, patient condition, team capability, daylight, evacuation distance, and contingency needs.
• Plan the rescue: Choose an appropriate low-angle, steep-angle, high-angle, litter, pickoff, raise/lower, or evacuation method based on risk, resources, and patient needs.
• Assign roles: Designate Line Bosses, Edgeman, Down Rope Rescuers, and Safety Officer. Define communications, equipment staging, and backup resources.
• Maintain safety and risk management: Enforce PPE, edge control, anchor evaluation, system safety checks, belay or backup requirements, personnel accountability, fatigue management, and stop-work authority.
• Communicate progress: Provide clear briefings, periodic updates, resource requests, and completion reports to command while keeping the rope team informed of changes.
• Document and debrief: Record operational decisions, hazards, personnel assignments, equipment issues, patient movement timeline, and lessons learned for training and quality improvement.
Required Knowledge and Skills
Technical Rope Rescue
| Topic | Skill | Criteria |
| Rope Rescue Leadership | Prerequisite Capability | Pass all requirements for the Down Rope Rescuer role. |
| Rope Rescue Proficiency | Demonstrate a high level of knowledge and skill in technical rope rescue. | |
| Leadership Qualification | Have the demonstrated ability to manage as a Field Team Leader team dynamics, risk decisions, communications, fatigue, and task progress in remote terrain. |