Rescue Using a Ladder from a Window

Rescue Using a Ladder from a Window: A simple guide to safe and effective victim rescue during fires, including double-ladder techniques.

Finding a Victim on the Second Floor

It’s common to find victims in second-floor rooms during a fire. In such cases, quick decision-making is crucial.
First, ensure the area is safe. Then prepare to begin the rescue.
Check the surroundings—how thick the smoke is, how far the fire has spread, and any other dangers. Stay calm and observe carefully.

Should You Drag the Victim Back Inside?

If rescuing the victim directly from where they are is too difficult, you might consider dragging them to a safer spot.
However, moving the victim the wrong way can cause more harm—especially if there’s fire or smoke nearby.
It’s important to learn the right way to move victims and make decisions based on the situation.

Is Window Rescue a Better Option?

Sometimes, getting out through the window is the safest and fastest option—especially if fire blocks the doorway.
Ladders and rescue tools can help safely lower the victim from the window.
However, this method needs skill and proper training to be done safely.

Step-by-Step Rescue Using a Ladder

1. Position the Victim’s Feet Toward the Window

Pull the victim toward the window by their feet.
Bend their knees at a 90-degree angle and place their feet flat on the floor.
This reduces friction and makes it easier to move them.

youtube : WTGB One Person Window Lift with Ladder Removal

2. Set the Ladder Against the Building

Place the ladder securely at a stable angle.
Normally, the angle should be about 75 degrees, but a gentler angle can make the rescue easier.
Make sure the ladder is stable and won’t slip.

3. Lift and Pass the Victim Out the Window

Lift the victim with both hands and push them out through the window.
The rescuer on the ladder grabs the victim and pulls them so their body leans out to one side of the rescuer.

4. Secure the Victim on the Ladder

Once the upper body is out, the rescuer inside helps move the victim’s legs out one at a time.
The rescuer on the ladder puts their arm between the victim’s legs and holds onto the ladder while supporting the victim.

5. Descend

While going down the ladder, the rescuer supports the victim’s body.
By pressing the victim’s body against the ladder, they can create friction and control the descent speed.

Double-Ladder Rescue Technique

In some situations, using two ladders side-by-side can make the rescue safer and faster—especially for tall buildings or complex structures.

Benefits:

1. Increased Safety
Two ladders provide more stability, reducing the risk of falling.
This is especially helpful in windy or uneven areas.

2. Faster Rescue
Two ladders allow multiple victims to be rescued at once, which saves time.

3. Better Escape Routes
Two ladders create a wider and more stable path for victims to escape.

4. Less Strain on Rescuers
With more space and stability, rescuers can work in a better posture and get less tired.

5. Adaptable to Many Situations
You can change the ladder positions depending on the building or number of victims.
This makes it a flexible and reliable method.