Firefighter Rescue - Below Grade Extraction - Webbing Technique - Part 1

2 or 3 - 1 inch tubular webbing loops can be used to extract a Firefighter who has fallen through a hole in a floor or roof. This is just another technique when a hose line, rope or other options are not available. The loops are created by tying a 19-20 foot length of webbing together with a "Water Knot" - Making an 8-9 foot loop. It's best to use a "Key" style gate carabiner when working with webbing - Less likely to get caught on the webbing itself or anything else you're clipping into. 19-20 feet of webbing $6 to $7.00 - Key style carabiner $10 to $14.00.

Train, Be Prepared, Stay Safe - Survive!
Dale G. Pekel

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Comment by DALE G. PEKEL on August 5, 2009 at 5:58pm: Thanks for the comments brothers - All good points. We have deployed this technique in different hole configurations on acquired structures and it's a viable option, even if you can work from only one side of the floor - Remember it's just another option in your tool box of skills.

Our Rapid Intervention Teams use a specific kit (called the "Columbus Kit") for the extraction of an injured on unconscious FF who has fallen through a hole, but only when the floor or roof integrity will allow it. The kit contains 2- 50 foot sections of 5/8" rescue rope, 2 XL locking carabiners and 1 custom storage bag. We also deploy with a 12 foot "Quik Step" folding ladder, entanglement kit and supplement air supply. Lets face it though, no technique will work in every situation, and in light weight construction all bets are off for an above floor or roof rescue.

There are at least two document LODDs where the webbing technique had a chance to make a difference. One is well known - John Nance from Columbus, Ohio who died on July 25, 1987. The other LODD has not been given nearly the same attention, but was just as tragic - Lionel Hoffer from Milwaukee, Wisconsin who died on December 24, 1994 when he also fell through a hole in a floor and ran out of air before fellow firefighters could effect a rescue. I still remember attending his funeral and will for the rest of my life.

Comment by FETC on August 5, 2009 at 4:00pm: Like to add the floor is usually comprimised from the original collapse and the firefighters working upstairs are usally concerned with their own safety. Having a jagged 10' wide hole is clearly not as easy as a small, clean cut hole and everyone standing up on it to pull straight up.

Comment by Ben Waller on August 5, 2009 at 10:36am: This technique can work, but it relies on the downed firefighter being able to properly make all of the connections. If the firefighter is injured or trapped under debris from the floor collapse, this technique is going to have limited value.

Zero visibility and heat conditions that might affect the nylon are additional problems in this scenario.