Following yesterdays detailed report on the exploits of the water team, here follows a report from Alistair Greenough on the training undertaken by the rope team.

Tonight 17 team members undertook the second of four rope rescue training sessions at GMFRS Bolton North Community Fire Station by kind invitation of Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service who allowed us the use of their training tower. This evening we concentrated on the use of double line rope rescue systems which allows a much greater amount of safety for both the casualty and the rescuer by having a safety line in the event that one rope fails (this is different to traditional mountaineering methods). By adopting this type of system it allows us to work seamlessly with both Fire and Rescue as well as Ambulance HART teams.

Members had another opportunity to practice with the Petzl ID rope control device (again in line with Fire and Ambulance services). We alternated between using lowering system then converting to a raising system.

Tonight’s session leads on to next week’s training looking at pick off rescue of stranded or injured climbers and walkers.

Thanks to Nigel Booth for arranging the venue at GMFRS Bolton North Community Fire Station.