Safe. Simple. Proven.
In the high-risk world of technical rescue, responders must be prepared for complex scenarios where traditional methods may not be enough. Technical Rescue: Tips and Techniques by Mike Giroux provides firefighters, rescue teams, and emergency personnel with practical, field-tested solutions to enhance safety, efficiency, and effectiveness in technical rescue operations.
This book introduces a systems-safety approach that prioritizes safe, simple, and proven techniques to help responders avoid critical mistakes, adapt to challenging conditions, and execute rescues with confidence. Covering real-world applications and tools for preplanning, this essential guide ensures that every operation is backed by experience, logic, and best practices.
Key Topics Covered:
- Ropes and Knots – Essential rigging techniques for various rescue scenarios.
- Patient Packaging – Best practices for safe and effective victim transport.
- High-Angle Rope Rescue – Practical approaches to vertical and aerial rescue challenges.
- Confined Space & Trench Rescue – Critical safety measures and response strategies.
- Size-Up for Technical Rescue – Evaluating hazards and structuring response efforts.
- Swing-Stage Scaffolding Rescues – Lessons from real-life incidents and best practices.
Through detailed case studies, hands-on examples, and operational insights, this title provides both new and experienced rescue professionals with the knowledge and tools necessary to tackle complex rescues safely and efficiently.
Foreword
Acknowledgments
Introduction
1. Rope, Knots, Rigging, and Safety
Life Safety Rope for Technical Rescue
Figure Eight Family of Knots
Basic Rigging And Anchor Systems For Rescue
Materials for Anchor Rigging
Basic Rigging Principles: Types of Anchor Systems
Angles and Forces in Load-Sharing Systems
Anchor Attachments
High Points
Static System Safety Factors
Mechanical Advantage
Block and Tackle M/A systems
Calculating Tension in M/A Systems
Chapter 1 Questions
2. Patient Packaging
Medical Considerations for Technical Rescue
Full Backboard Immobilization of the Victim
Different Types of Litters for the Patient
Rigging Patient Litter Devices
Short Spinal Immobilization Devices
Conclusion
Chapter 2 Questions
3. High-Angle Rope Rescue
The Incident
Concepts in High-Angle Rescue
Pickoff
Low-Point Edge Transitions
The Equipment and Rope Bags
Inventory
Chapter 3 Questions
4. Confined Space Rescue
Definition of a Confined Space
OSHA Regulation 29 CFR 1910.146
Permit-Required Confined Spaces
Atmospheric Monitoring
Testing Sequence
Roles and Responsibilities of Team Members
Fresh Air Breathing Apparatus
Rigging for Confined Spaces
Rigging Rope Systems
Conclusion
Chapter 4 Questions
5. Trench Rescue
Securing the Trench
Trench Panels
Strut Activation Forces and Pressures
Patient Packaging for Trenches
Chapter 5 Questions
6. Swing-Stage Scaffold
My Experience with Swing-Stage Scaffolding
After the Incident
The Foundation
Performing the Rescue
Chapter 6 Questions
7. Size-Up for Technical Rescue Emergencies
RECE-OVS
COAL WAS WEALTH
WHATS UP
Chapter 7 Questions
Appendix A. Prerigged and Training Cache Bags
Appendix B. Equipment Inventory and Rope Logs
Appendix C. Practice on Mechanical Advantage and Static System Safety
Factor
Appendix D. Sample Preplanning Sheets and Forms for Documentation of Various
Technical Rescue Incidents
Answer Key
Index
Mike Giroux is a captain with 24 years of experience with the City of Yonkers Fire Department in New York. Most of his career has been spent in special operation units. His responsibilities include teaching and training the department in all technical rescue disciplines, which include but are not limited to collapse, trench, confined space rescue, high angle rope rescue, and personal escape systems (PSS). He also works as a senior chief instructor for Wright Rescue Solutions, Inc., based in Florida. His duties include providing high-quality training in the technical disciplines of structural rope rescue, confined space, urban search and rescue (USAR) training, and stand-by rescue work. He has trained individuals and organizations from around the country. Some of his students have included other fire departments, the DOD, energy production companies, and state USAR teams. Giroux holds national certifications as a fire instructor and fire officer as well as state certification as an EMT. He has obtained a masters degree with a heavy concentration on research and design. This has led to his philosophy of trying to improve upon best practice techniques and teaching methods.
