Technical rescue

Rescue teams specialized in technical rescue intervene when a situation is particularly difficult or dangerous. They are instructed and trained intensively for this. They operate on any terrain (confined spaces, great heights, mountain rescue, etc.) when a conventional rescue cannot be safely performed.

These specialists master all the progression techniques and all techniques for rope management, including the most complex. Techniques that are used will differ according to the nature and shape of the terrain: evacuation downward, upward, or by a Tyrolean traverse.

Downward evacuation
Easier to install, this is the preferred type of evacuation, when possible. Downward evacuation takes place using gravity, applying different techniques determined for specific types of terrain.

Upward evacuation
Upward evacuation requires techniques which are sometimes particularly complex (hauling with a mechanical winch, creating a hauling system built from lightweight pulleys, using counterweight techniques, etc.) Upward evacuation is a team effort and requires perfect coordination by everyone involved.

Evacuation by Tyrolean traverse
When progression is difficult (urban sites, industrial sites, confined spaces, canyons, etc.) or impossible due to the presence of an obstacle, victims can be evacuated via Tyrolean traverse.

These complex systems can only be installed by rescue workers who have been specially trained to make suitable decisions about the choice of techniques (Tyrolean traverse set up with transport rope and backup safety rope, "cable-car" system, special Tyrolean traverse for moving the victim in all directions while adapting to the terrain, etc.) and about the suitability of the chosen equipment.


Photo (c) Arnaud Childéric / Kalice - PGHM Isère & Savoie