JA&RE REACT rescue equipment MUST ONLY be used by trained persons. It is the responsibility of the user to be trained in appropriate confined space rescue techniques and first aid techniques, (if applicable), BEFORE using JA&RE REACT equipment. THE LIFE OF THE CASUALTY DEPENDS UPON YOUR TRAINING AND SKILL.
The REACT Slix stretchers are ‘Roll Up’ type stretchers designed to be used in the most extreme conditions.
In common with ALL Roll Up stretchers they are to a degree flexible which gives the ability to evacuate casualties from situations where rigid stretchers would not be suitable or may not even reach.
Users must be aware that Roll Up stretchers do have limitations and training must take into account the physical properties of Roll Up stretchers.
JA&RE recommend that a spinal splint or a spinal backboard is always used - even when spinal injuries are not present or suspected - to increase casualty comfort and to prevent respiratory compromise when in transition from the horizontal to the vertical mode and when dragging the casualty over a surface .
Loaded roll up stretchers should not be carried by lifting ‘head & tail’ unless good spinal support is provided with a spine board or spinal splint.
Care must be taken when moving from the horizontal to vertical mode. Support around the head and shoulder area should be provided as the transition takes place. At least one person supporting each side is a recommended practice.
It is possible to provide support by utilising the shoulder level haul attachment points, (Red). Connect a line via a ‘Y’ hang. This will allow the haulers to lift the stretcher from horizontal to vertical without undue bending of the stretcher, compromising the casualty. Once the stretcher is in the vertical mode, and clear of the floor, the main head haul may be utilised.
Care must be taken when landing a Roll Up stretcher at the head of a vertical section, particularly when there is low head room. Adequate support must be given until the casualty is horizontal, and safe!
In common with ALL Roll Up stretchers they are to a degree flexible which gives the ability to evacuate casualties from situations where rigid stretchers would not be suitable or may not even reach.
Users must be aware that Roll Up stretchers do have limitations and training must take into account the physical properties of Roll Up stretchers.
JA&RE recommend that a spinal splint or a spinal backboard is always used -
Loaded roll up stretchers should not be carried by lifting ‘head & tail’ unless good spinal support is provided with a spine board or spinal splint.
Care must be taken when moving from the horizontal to vertical mode. Support around the head and shoulder area should be provided as the transition takes place. At least one person supporting each side is a recommended practice.
It is possible to provide support by utilising the shoulder level haul attachment points, (Red). Connect a line via a ‘Y’ hang. This will allow the haulers to lift the stretcher from horizontal to vertical without undue bending of the stretcher, compromising the casualty. Once the stretcher is in the vertical mode, and clear of the floor, the main head haul may be utilised.
Care must be taken when landing a Roll Up stretcher at the head of a vertical section, particularly when there is low head room. Adequate support must be given until the casualty is horizontal, and safe!
IMPORTANT CONSIDERATIONS
Horizontal to Vertical Transition.
Shown is a example of rigging to assist in the horizontal -
The RED rope is attached via a Double Fig 8 or Double Bowline ‘Y’ hang to the RED Stretcher Haul point at the shoulder level, using suitable karabiners.
The BLUE Rope is attached in a similar manner to the BLUE head haul points.
The main load is taken on the RED to lift the stretcher from the horizontal into the vertical mode.
The BLUE ROPE is taken in at the same time BUT NO LOAD is applied until the stretcher is fully in the Vertical mode.
RED
BLUE