Before beginning any specific training in rescue techniques, a proficiency in constructing knots and basic anchoring systems is required. This section covers some of the fundamental equipment used, knots tied, and discusses the first component of any rescue system: anchoring systems. Our team trains to Rescue System 1 protocols which are now fairly common standards used within the Bay Area SAR community.
We use 1 inch (1") tubular webbing. This type of webbing is constructed in an "O" shape then sewn through the center. The rating for this type webbing is about 18KN (4000 pounds).
This knot is used with webbing only. Its use is for attaching two pieces of webbing (or two ends of the same piece) together. This knot is also used to construct a loop of webbing which can be used in the construction of a mariners hitch.
Webbing is used in the following systems:
Note: Occasionally this knot requires an overhand knot on each end to "bomb-proof" the knot (so it will not pull out given excessive slippage from over use). Be sure to allow about 12 or more inches of webbing "tail" after tying the knot in order to add the overhand knot when bomb-proofing.
The Wrap 3 Pull 2 Anchor
Lay out your tubular webbing next to a solid anchor base. Select a tree or post that is as "thick as your leg" or bigger. Tie the first half of a water knot in the webbing, then wrap the webbing around the tree three times leaving plenty of webbing length on one end.
After three wraps complete your water knot and bomb-proofing. Remember to put the knot bundle in the front of the tree as to be able to have a visual on it during use. I have heard of tests that actually proved the water knot does indeed slip after 1000s of repeated uses using 500 pound loads... but our team has not experienced any significant slippage issues.
Finally, pull two of the three strands of webbing and clip in your first carabineer. Use steel or the new 40KN G-rated aluminum carabineers at his point to tie in your first component to your system. The webbing at this point should be rated at roughly 40KN as well (reported breaking strength of 42.4KN).
Mariner's Hitch / Radium Release
Using webbing (Mariner's) or 8MM rope, tie a knot to connect the ends and form a loop. Clip in one carabineer. to the loop and move the knot towards it.
Taking another carabineer. about 12" away, begin a back and forth wrap, several loops. Wrap the remaining webbing around the bundle towards the second carabineer. Clip in a third carabineer. after drawing it through the bundle.
The purposes of this hitch is to be able to put slack in a system.
Figure Eight
Explaining a figure eight just cut it. You've got to practice this one over and over, in the dark and behind your back until you know it cold. Then work on the variations below. Each has its own purpose and use.
Figure Eight Follow-Through
Figure Eight on a Bite (Bend)
The only other consideration worth mentioning about the figure eight is the "cleaning" on the knot or "finishing" as some call it. Essentially the pictures above are great for visual demonstration purposes but are not "finished". When finished the knot is tight and does not have any unusual bumps or overlaps in it. It has a "knuckle" look to it as shown below.
