Tree rescue manual | Page 47

Running anchors ( skate block for rescuer or for anchor )

Anchor points that move along a rope under load are described by arborists as running anchors . A wide variety of running anchor systems are used by arborists for climbing and rigging , including the use of speed lines or zip lines for extracting timber during tree dismantling .

Rescue teams use similar systems for casualty access or extraction during mountain , cliff , structure and boat-to-boat rescues . Complex trolley systems are beyond the scope of this document and would not often be suitable for tree rescues .

The system below would be described as a controlled running anchor by arborists , and as a skate block by rescue teams . In the image , the casualty has cut their climbing line and destabilised the branch in which they are resting . With no suitable redirect above the casualty , the rescue team have decided to use a skate block to position a climbing anchor directly above the casualty . The rescue climber will use a pick-off rescue to secure the casualty , and both can then be extracted by the ground team using the skate block .

Skills that may be required :

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