First Due Tackle Pass It On – Firefighter, Rescue & Extrication Training
This drill is from Lt. Bronner (PTFD). Pass it on!
Objective: Water rescue does not stop because of ice. Lets face it ice is often a thin layer of “hard water” on top of your “regular” body of water. Water rescue is a year round activity. Don’t get caught in the trap of we don’t live on Lake _____. Drive around your jurisdiction and take a look. We all have ponds in our developments and commercial areas for either decoration or retention. This training will help to refresh your skills in throwing your throw bag under a variety of conditions. Hopefully this will also spark a discussion also on what is in your area.
Evolution Description: Perform the following skills in regular clothing, a personal flotation device, and a cold water suit.
– Practice coaxing the victim out of the situation
- Example, keep your eyes on me, kick your feet, Swim to me, or just simply “stand up”
– Throw the Bag in a controlled environment (inside a truck bay)
- Throw overhand
- Throw side arm
- Throw underhand
- Coax the victim to grab onto the rope or wrap it around them
– Move outside around some obstacles (wind, trees, or narrow areas)
- Perform the same throws as you did in the controlled environment
– Practice the above skills with your PFD and cold water suit on
– When complete inspect your gear for wear, sun damage, or any other abnormalities
– Practice and discuss the “what if” (Did not make the throw to the patient, line went into a tree, or anything else you can think up)
