Never expose rope to any chemicals such as gasoline, thinners, oil, road flares, etc.

Do not allow the rope to run over sharp or rough edges, especially if it is loaded. Stepping on a rope will needlessly cause small particles of dirt and rock to be pushed into the rope fibers, causing internal wear that is extremely difficult to detect. Stepping on a rope is a cardinal sin, usually calling for prompt and uncouth comments. Although the equipment is sturdy and can handle the stresses of a rescue operation, care must be taken during an operation and in storing the equipment. Figure 9-1: Bight Figure 9-2: Loop Figure 9-3: Rope Parts GENERAL RULES FOR GOVERNING ROPE WORK Rope rescue equipment is used as a personal life support and for rescue operations. Standing Part The fastened part or the whole rope other than the running end. See FigureĢ Chapter 9 Rope Rescue Equipment and Knots Ventura County Search and Rescue Team 3 Software Software refers to the soft equipment used in rope rescue such as ropes, webbing, and Prusiks. Running End The free end of the rope that is not attached to any other rope or system. Loop A turn in a rope which crosses over itself. Rescue and climbing equipment use Kilonewton to measure the kind of forces the gear can withstand. Kilonewton A Kilonewton (kn) is a measure of force. The sheath provides protection and holds the cores. The core is the primary load bearing part of the rope. This is the type of rope used in rescue and climbing ropes. Kernmantle Type of rope that has a core (kern) and a sheath (mantle). SAR#3 uses primarily hardware made out of aluminum for its lightness. Hardware Hardware refers to metal equipment used in rope rescue such as carabiners, Rescue 8 Descenders, and anchor plates. Half-Hitch A loop in a rope which turns around a shaft or piece of rope, so as to lock itself. DEFINITIONS Bight A turn in a rope which does not cross itself. Equipment currently in use may vary slightly from the description, graphic, and specification listed in this chapter because equipment is purchased from various vendors. 1 Ventura County Search and Rescue Team 3 Chapter 9 Rope Rescue Equipment and Knots CHAPTER 9 - ROPE RESCUE EQUIPMENT AND KNOTS The purpose of this chapter is to provide an overview of the equipment used in rope rescue and the knots used by SAR#3.

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