Learn Building Rescue techniques, including aerial ladder and rope rescues, to ensure safe, effective high-altitude emergency responses.
There are cases where building cleaners or individuals attempting self-harm become stranded on the side of a building. Here, we will outline high-altitude rescue methods for such situations.
High-Altitude Rescue Cases
When a rescue incident occurs at a high altitude, it is necessary to set up an air rescue mat (Super Soft Landing).
Using an Aerial Ladder Truck
If it is possible to approach the building with an aerial ladder truck and the ladder can reach the person in need of rescue, prioritize using the aerial ladder truck. Be cautious of power lines and other obstacles.
- Extend the ladder and rescue the person into the basket.
For rescue locations at a height of about 8 meters, a triple-extension ladder can also be used.
Rope Rescue
When an aerial ladder truck is not usable, use rope rescue methods. This method can also be applied to hanging incidents.
- Approach the person from above and lower them down (Pick-off Rescue).
Preparing the Rescue Area
If there is enough space on the roof, bring the necessary equipment there.
- If there is no roof or the space is narrow, work from the upper floor room.
- Create an anchor using objects or fences on the roof.
If there are no objects on the roof, use fire trucks on the ground as anchors.
Rope Setup
- Drop three ropes from the roof: a main rope, a belay rope, and a safety rope for the person being rescued.
- Attach a rescue harness (like a Pitagor) to the safety rope and lower it near the person.
Rescuing the Person
- One rescuer descends using a braking device (like an I’D) and an ASAP lock, and attaches the rescue harness to the person.
- If necessary, also attach a guide rope.
- Pull the safety rope up, and once the tension from the original rope attached to the person is released, gradually lower the safety rope to bring the person down to the ground.
Emergency Rescue
In urgent situations such as fires, it may be necessary to perform an immediate rescue. In such cases, using a short ladder with hooks can be effective.
- This method allows rescue using just a ladder and one rope.
Create an anchor using objects or fences on the roof. If there is no anchor, a cantilever ladder can be used.
Ladder Rescue
- Attach a ladder to the safety rope and lower the ladder close to the person in need.
- Once the person is on the ladder, gradually loosen the safety rope to lower the person to the ground.
By following these methods, high-altitude rescues can be performed safely and effectively.
