Kent is one of the first fire and rescue services in the UK to be using a new kit that will enhance the way firefighters rescue casualties from heights and confined spaces.
The new winches can hoist up to three people to safety from vast drops and allow crews to access casualties stuck in difficult-to-reach areas more easily.
Easy to use
Deal Crew Manager and Member of the Technical Line Rescue Team, Dan Yates, said, “We’re pleased to have these new winches now in operation. They’re much easier to use during a rescue. Instead of having to use a pulley system where greater physical activity and space is required, these winches are lightweight and can be used remotely, as well as in constricted areas."
Flexibility
The team will be able to pull both a casualty and a rescuer to safety with much more ease"
Dan Yates adds, “Previously, the teams would have required the use of a nearby 4x4 vehicle to safely operate the pulley system, but now we have greater flexibility to set up the new winches wherever there is a safe anchor point, such as cliff tops."
He continues, "We have several cliff faces along the Kent coast, including Folkestone, which sits at 200m high, and with these winches, the team will be able to pull both a casualty and a rescuer to safety with much more ease.”
Versatile and efficient
The new kit, which is designed by international sailboat manufacturer - Harken, is more versatile, weighs less than the previous equipment, and therefore, can be carried by a single crew member.
This will improve operational response and overall crew efficiency.