Bottom-up rescue on partially failed stem
1 . The rescuer begins ascending the stem , using spur climbing techniques and remaining on the opposite side of the stem to the hazard .
2 . As soon as the rescuer reaches the lowest point of the split , they secure the trunk below the split using a heavy-duty truck strap or dog and chains .
3 . Only one strap is shown in the image , but if necessary multiple straps can be installed around the trunk as the rescuer ascends . Once each strap is installed , the rescuer can advance their lanyard to just past the strap before installing the next one .
4 . As the rescuer ascends , the split will widen . As soon as possible , the rescuer should attach in to the ‘ safe side ’ of the stem by passing their lanyard ends through the split .
5 . Additional straps should be installed as the rescuer continues to ascend the safe side of the stem to reach the casualty .
6 . On smaller stems , it may be possible to take tension out of the casualty ’ s lanyard by tightening a strap to bring the two side of the tree together .
7 . As soon as possible , the rescuer should install a top anchor and belay for themselves and for the casualty . See pole-top rescue ( Pg . 165 ). The ground team can prepare to lower the casualty as soon as they are freed from the split stem .
8 . Depending on the position of the lower straps , it may be preferable to add a set of Fours as high as possible , and tension these as tight as possible .
9 . If it has not been possible to create slack in the casualty ’ s lanyards , and if the lanyards cannot be adjusted manually by the rescuer , they must be cut away . 10 . A normal pole-top rescue can now be conducted .
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