Drill of the Week: Rope Operations

By Forest Reeder

A core piece of equipment for safety and survival is the rope. Lengths, sizes, and types of rope used by firefighters vary, as do deployment and packaging methods. Ropes can be used as search lines for the team and also as a rescue aid used for the rescue and removal of trapped members. Hardware appliances can be used to assist in anchoring and tie offs of tools or equipment.

A good working knowledge of knots is also a fundamental skill for all firefighters, especially members of RIT groups. Rope requires special care and maintenance as well as storage in order to function as intended. Review your rope bags, accessory kits and inventories of this vital piece of safety and survival equipment.

Download this week’s firefighter training drill as a PDF HERE.

Forest Reeder began his fire service career in 1979. He currently serves as Battalion Chief / Director of Training & Safety with the Pleasantview (IL) Fire Protection District (www.plvw.org) and is the Director of Training for Southwest United Fire Districts (www.sufd.org). In these capacities, he is responsible for the design, implementation and coordination of in-service training activities as well as a full-service fire training academy program. Forest holds numerous Illinois fire service certifications and holds a Masters Degree in Public Safety Administration from Lewis University.
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