About Rigging for Rescue

Rigging for Rescue offers technical ropework seminars renowned for their focus on applying the critical thinking and systems analysis skills required to competently incorporate ropework and rigging into effective rescue systems. For more information visit www.riggingforrescue.com

Tuesday, June 14, 2016

RfR Specialty Techniques - Ouray, Colorado

Our recent spring open enrollment offering of RfR Specialty Techniques included a diverse group of practitioners. We had folks from mountain rescue teams, special operations community members, and  even a participant from the Danish navy.

Topics and techniques explored included:

  • a detailed discussion of artificial high directionals including the construction and use of a Sideways A-Frame bipod
  • a mid-face litter pickoff 
  • the Kootenay Highline System in a spectacular location across the Ouray Ice Park gorge
  • the San Juan Pickoff along with multi-pitch transitions 
  • and much more
    Kootenay Highline System

    Mid-face litter pickoff

    Station management at a hanging belay

    Multi-pitch transition using the San Juan Pickoff

    Sideways A-Frame
The last exercise was particularly challenging as it included a hanging belay transition - similar to what you would find in a big wall setting.  When you cannot unweight the system via a stance, all of the tension transfer tools in your toolbox need to be well applied and carefully considered.  In a hanging belay, it is very "self critiquing" when you don't get the steps just right.