Rescue in an Irrigation Canal: Safe methods using ladders, vehicle lifts, and slide techniques.
Rescue from Urban Sewers and Canals
Rescuing someone from urban sewers or canals may seem simple, but it involves significant risks and requires proper procedures and techniques. Here’s a clear explanation of how to rescue a person who has fallen about 2 meters into a low-water canal.
Initial Response
In rescue operations from sewers and canals, ensuring the safety of the fallen person is the top priority. Here’s a breakdown of the necessary equipment and steps for the initial response.
Necessary Equipment for Initial Response
- Locked Ladder or Triple Ladder:
- Provides a safe means to approach the fallen person during rescue operations.
- Rescue Rope and Life Ring:
- Used to safely pull up the fallen person if they are within arm’s reach.
- Safety Harness and Life Jacket:
- Worn by rescue team members if they need to enter the canal to ensure their safety.
- Stretcher:
- Used to safely lift the fallen person out of the canal, especially if they are seriously injured or unable to move on their own.
Rescue Procedures
- Ensure Safety and Assess the Situation:
- Secure the rescue site and observe the condition of the fallen person. Communicate with them to reassure them.
- Use Rescue Equipment:
- If the person is within reach, use a rescue rope or life ring to pull them up.
- Direct Rescue:
- If the person cannot reach the equipment, a rescue team member wearing a safety harness and life jacket descends to them using a locked ladder or triple ladder.
- Safe Lifting:
- When lifting the person from the canal, keep their body horizontal to avoid further injury, such as spinal damage.
- First Aid and Evaluation:
- After moving to a safe location, provide first aid to the fallen person and transport them to a medical facility if necessary.
Important Points
- Communication:
- Call out to the person in need of rescue by asking their name and date of birth. This helps assess their level of consciousness.
- Choice of Rescue Technique:
- If the person can walk, use a ladder to safely lift them. If they cannot walk or are unconscious, use a crane or rope rescue techniques.
Rescue Using a Rescue Vehicle
When a rescue vehicle can access the site, it is especially effective for rescuing a severely injured person or when direct access is difficult. Here’s a clear explanation of how to use a rescue vehicle.
Rescue Steps Using a Rescue Vehicle
- Full Body Immobilization:
- Before approaching the fallen person, immobilize their entire spine as much as possible to prevent further injury.
- Transfer to a Basket Stretcher:
- Carefully move the person to a basket stretcher. Use cribbing (small wooden blocks) or other supports under the stretcher to keep the person dry.
- Use a Crane:
- Use the crane equipped on the rescue vehicle to safely lift the stretcher. A trained operator should handle the crane.
- Guiding with Hooks and Ropes:
- Secure the crane’s hook to the stretcher and use ropes to safely and carefully guide the stretcher during lifting. The person’s safety is the top priority during this process.
Safety Measures and Precautions
- Rescue Team Safety:
- Rescue team members should wear safety harnesses and life jackets and work as a team as much as possible. Ensuring safety during rescue operations is paramount.
- Crane Operation Safety:
- Operate the crane safely, considering the surrounding environment (presence of power lines, ground stability, etc.).
- Monitoring the Fallen Person’s Condition:
- Continuously monitor the person’s level of consciousness, body temperature, and injury status during the rescue, and provide first aid as needed.
Using a rescue vehicle is an effective method to safely and efficiently rescue a fallen person. Rescue operations should always be conducted with utmost caution, prioritizing safety.
Rescue from Canals and Urban Sewers Without a Rescue Vehicle
When a rescue vehicle cannot access the site, different approaches are needed based on the location and condition of the fallen person. Here’s a clear explanation of the steps to safely rescue someone.
Rescue Procedures
- Full Body Immobilization:
- Immobilize the fallen person as much as possible to prevent further injuries, especially stabilizing important areas like the spine.
- Transfer to a Basket Stretcher:
- Carefully move the person to a basket stretcher. Place cribbing or support under the stretcher to keep the person dry.
- Using a Rescue Platform:
- If the fall height is about 2 meters, set up a rescue platform and manually lift the person.
- Ladder Rescue:
- If the fall height is more than 2 meters, perform a ladder rescue. Secure the basket stretcher or backboard to the ladder and lift the person with multiple rescue team members.
- Heart Condition or Shock Suspected:
- If the person is suspected to have a heart condition or is in shock, avoid standing rescues and use a ladder crane for careful rescue.
Safety Measures and Precautions
- Ensuring Rescuer Safety:
- Rescue team members should wear appropriate protective gear and take safety measures to ensure their own safety during the rescue.
- Monitoring the Fallen Person’s Condition:
- Continuously monitor the person’s level of consciousness and injury status during the rescue, and provide first aid as needed.
- Choosing Appropriate Rescue Techniques:
- Select the most suitable rescue technique based on the situation and the fallen person’s condition. Pre-planning and teamwork are essential for successful rescues.
Even if a rescue vehicle cannot access the site, there are effective methods to safely and efficiently rescue the person. The priority is always the safety of the fallen person, using the appropriate rescue techniques.
Moving Ladder Slide
The Moving Ladder Slide is an effective rescue technique for overcoming slopes and obstacles. This method involves using a ladder to safely move a stretcher-bound person over obstacles. Here’s a clear explanation of the steps.
Moving Ladder Slide Procedure
- Setting Up the Ladder:
- Place the ladder at the edge of the slope or obstacle. Ensure the ladder is securely fixed and won’t slip or move during the operation.
- Securing the Stretcher:
- Tie the stretcher firmly to the bottom of the ladder. Ensure the stretcher is evenly supported and the person is stable during the move.
- Moving the Ladder:
- Rescuers positioned at the top carefully pull the ladder up. Apply uniform force slowly and steadily, paying attention to the person’s weight and ladder stability.
- Ensuring Safety:
- Continuously check the stability of the ladder and stretcher during the move, ensuring the person is comfortably transported. Be particularly careful to prevent the ladder from falling when overcoming obstacles.
- Mind the Person’s Weight:
- For larger individuals, ensure the ladder’s weight capacity is not exceeded. Consider additional support or alternative methods if needed.
Safety Points
- Rescuer Cooperation:
- The Moving Ladder Slide requires cooperation among multiple rescuers. Work at the same pace and maintain communication for safe operation.
- Equipment Check:
- Before moving, check the condition of the ladder, stretcher, and the ropes or straps securing them. Ensure there is no damage or wear.
This method allows for safe and efficient transportation of an injured person over obstacles with the help of a ladder and teamwork.
Reference page: Discover rope rescue systems, anchor types, knots, and techniques for safe and efficient low, and high-angle rescues in various terrains.
References National Fire Protection Association (NFPA)
