LEAD THE RESCUER
Core Purpose
This isn’t a beginner’s course. It’s designed for:
- Rope rescue professionals ready to lead teams in high-stakes environments.
- Individuals looking to refine decision-making, command presence, and technical rescue under stress.
- Those prepared for long days, night operations, and minimal classroom time.
Key message: This is a demanding, advanced-level course to make you a better rescue leader, not just a better rescuer.
Advanced Technical Skills
Participants will enhance and test their skills across:
- Medical Interventions in Rescue
- Rope Systems & Techniques:
- TTRS (Twin Tension Rope Systems)
- DMDB (Dual Main, Dual Belay)
- SRT (Single Rope Technique)
- 11mm and small diameter rope (e.g., 8mm, TRACE)
- Use of AHDs (Artificial High Directionals – monopods, bipods, tripods)
- System Variations:
- English, Norwegian, Flemish, Wallonie systems
- Cross hauls, pick-offs, deflection systems (e.g., skate blocks)
Participant Requirements
Skill Level:
Participants must have an advanced level of rope rescue proficiency. Acceptable qualifications include:
- NFPA Technician Level
- SPRAT / IRATA Level 2
- SAR Rope Rescue Level 2
- IMP2
- Or equivalent (contact the organizers for assessment)
Gear List – Required:
- Class II or III harness
- Helmet, gloves, rugged shoes, long pants
- Pen, notepad, water bottle
- Hands-free stop DCD (e.g., ID, Maestro for 11mm)
- Ascending system with 2 secure points above waist
- Dynamic lanyards/cowstails
- 6x Locking carabiners (24kN+)
- Short slings, prusiks, 5m+ accessory cord
Recommended:
- Fall arrest/backup device
- Mechanical ascenders
- Small rescue pulley
- And most importantly: Humility, joy, and a sense of humor!
(Some equipment for small diameter systems will be provided.)