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A selection of exercises and training sessions that DSAR members have been involved in:
D13, D35, D46, D52, D55 and prospective member Sally Trainor met at
Constantia Nek for a basic-level field training meet lead by D42 and D47; the
latter unfortunately suffering gastronomical ill health and unable to
attend. After a short briefing and gear check the group moved off up the
mountain following the Eagles Nest/Constantia Corner/Bel Ombre route.
D55 was delegated to lead this section, and was soon confronted by the
challenges of worsening weather (rain, wind and low visibility in the cloud)
and a party with differing levels of fitness. He rose to the occasion,
however, and despite an unscheduled (but enjoyable) detour to the summit of
Klaasenskop delivered us to his destination. D13 took over and led the
way to the MCSA Hut, where Ross & Sally hosted the other DSAR personnel
for a slightly warmer and dryer lunch - the weather by this time had settled
to continuous rain and the temperature in the hut was only 13
degrees!
Unbeknownst to us all, a rescue callout for a party of scouts "lost"
on TM was taking place as we were on the back table - an area which has no
cellphone reception and poor repeater coverage. Fortunately, it was more
a case of worried parents - the boys were safe and the call was stood down
quickly.
Once all the participants had eaten and drunk hot tea or soup the group
departed once more for Constantia Nek - the decision was taken that due
to the severity of the weather and the differing fitness within the party we
would not follow our original planned route of ascent to Maclear's Beacon
before descending. Instead, the group walked - under the leadership of
D35 - to the top of Nursery Ravine via Nursery Valley. Here the party
divided into two separate groups (due to time constraints and sore knees).
D13, D52 and D55 returned via the jeep track while D35, D42, D46 and Sally
descended Nursery Ravine and reached Constantia Nek 30 minutes later via
Cecelia Forest.
As this training was aimed at "Basic" level, many of the points of
learning were already familiar to the participants. However, the
following issue were raised and discussed along the route. They're not
picking on anyone in particular, but if you go "Ow, me" then you've
learnt something:
I hope I've covered the most important points - please feel free (especially
those who were there) to add or dispute anything!
Ross Hofmeyr D42 4x4 TRAINING AT THUNDERCITY: 30 AUGUST 2003Present : Dave Watling D82, Fabrice Stock D38, Alex van Aswegen D39, Francoir Marais D26, Schalk van Niekerk D45, Peter Jaeger D96. Primarily we had a fun day. It started by driving the course looking for
places where we can get stuck, which we managed to do and then to get unstuck
exercising our skills. Dave emphasized the importance of us being capable of
getting out of trouble positions ourselves without requiring others, who may be
engaged in a SAR, to assist. Peter D96
ROPE RESCUE TRAINING - GORDON'S BAY: 9 NOVEMBER 2002
Photos: Rowan Millson, D40
FIELD OPERATIVES TRAINING - HELDERBERG FIRE STATION: 7 SEPTEMBER 2002D13, D15, D38, D40, D41, D42, D45, D46 and D47 attended a theory presentation by D48 on the basic principles of forces exerted on anchor systems, functions and physics of pulleys and mechanical advantage systems, and the schematic planning of rope work for SAR applications. Properties of different ropes, knots and hardware were compared within the arena of technical rescue. Ross Hofmeyr, D42 FIELD OP TRAINING - ELANDSKLOOF: 6 JULY 2002D15, D38, D39, D40, D41, D42, D46, and D48 gathered at the Elandskloof Farm near Sir Lowry’s Pass for practical navigation training. Using maps of the surrounding area, a discussion/tutorial was held in which the more experienced members helped the newer members one-on-one to understand and use concepts such as setting a map, bearings and back-bearings, lat/long, UTM and military grid reference systems, basic GPS use and “backwoods” navigation using natural indicators. Ross Hofmeyr, D42 WSAR PENINSULA CELL TRAINING/EXERCISE, BACK TABLE: 15/16 MARCH 2002DSAR was invited to send four field operatives to take part
in this training session spanning Friday and Saturday. D38 and D42 were
able to participate while D15 attended as a lecturer. Approximately 40 operatives from WSAR signature groups met
at 0754B at Constantia Nek and were conveyed to the old Overseer’s Hut on the
Back Table. Dr Wayne Smith welcomed the group on the arrival of the SKYMED
chopper. All participants were divided into 5 smaller groups, which then
rotated through 50-minute lectures on Wilderness Emergency Care, Navigation,
Rope Skills, Basic Radio Communications and a Helicopter Orientation. Much of the training was aimed at the 22 Ukuvuka (Operation
Firestop) personnel present, to bring them into the WSAR fold. The late
afternoon was spent sending these personnel on orientation flights in SKYMED 1
to acclimatise them to helicopter operations. In the course of the afternoon a distress call was received
from an individual stuck on a ledge on the west face of the mountain.
Kevin Tromp was dispatched in the helicopter to investigate, and duly performed
an extraction. The subject had wandered off the Diagonal Route and become
stuck on the lip of a waterfall. He was brought back to the Back Table,
clearly embarrassed to be confronted by hordes of rescue personnel! Once activities for the day had ceased, a debriefing
regarding the training was held and some pointers regarding the next day’s
simulation were given. It was clear from the hints dropped that there
would be a pre-dawn start. The Cape Nature Conservation personnel the
treated everyone to a braai. At approximately 2045B a call was put through by METRO
Control regarding a party stuck below the cableway station. A team of
seven under the leadership of Kevin Tromp was dispatched to deal with the
incident. (See the separate mission report.) On return of the rescue team at 0345B the simulation
exercise was begun – all operatives were woken and briefed, divided into three
search groups and dispatched into the surrounding area. The situation
involved two lost women who had separated from their hiking group to find
another route off the mountain, but had not returned to the group’s vehicles.
Two volunteers had been secretly sent off to act as the “lost persons.”
The incident was controlled using Metro One as an Incident Command Post.
As the incident progressed, the search areas around the dams were refined until
one lost person was found “uninjured” but truly cold. She was able to
give further information, which led to the discovery of the second subject near
the foot of the de Villiers Dam. She had “fallen down a cliff”
sustaining “spinal, pelvic and exposure” injuries. The search teams were duly recalled and dispatched with the
necessary equipment to the location of the patient. She was “treated”
by a METRO paramedic and packaged on a Troll Alphen stretcher while another team
prepared a mechanical advantage hoisting system at the top of the cliff.
The “patient” was hoisted to the top of the cliff before being carried up to
a suitable LZ for the chopper. On request, the SKYMED chopper performed a
hot load of the patient and flew her to “hospital.” All personnel then
returned to the base. Full debriefs of the simulation and weekend in general were held before all operatives stood down at 1100B. Ross Hofmeyr, D42 WSAR Chopper Training, Table Mountain: 05 MARCH 2002This training session was aimed at proficiency to WSAR Level 2 (Intermediate)
standard. D15 and D42 arrived at Ysterplaat AFB at 0800B to join 11 other
WSAR operatives drawn from the HART, SAPS, METRO, MCSA and Hiker’s Network.
This group then proceeded to the 22 Squadron base for briefing. As all
operatives present had undergone previous chopper training, only information
specific to the planned exercise was discussed. The briefings were quite
protracted as new SOPs were being created. The exercise was to be carried out as follows – the
group split into teams A and B, each consisting of 6 members and under the
leadership of Dion and Kevin Tromp respectively.
An Oryx helicopter would be used to deploy team A on the Pulpit on the
east face of Table Mountain (GRID 624 386) before deploying team B on Wood
Buttress on the west face (GRID 584 381). Chris
Howley of the MCSA would be on-board as navigator.
The teams would each prepare a stretcher (Paraguard and Troll Alphen
respectively) with a backrope, and winch out on return of the chopper. The SOP for winching order was discussed.
On insertion, the first operative must be a “climber” in
communication with the chopper, followed by a second climber to secure the area
(establish safe anchors if necessary). The
medic with jump-bag would follow third, followed by an operative with the
stretcher. Finally, any other
operatives would follow. On extraction the medic with jump-bag would lead
(should there be no medic in the chopper) followed by the stretcher. The rest of the team would be winched next, leaving a climber
in communication with the chopper for last. A final briefing was held at the helicopter regarding the
ergonomics of working in the aircraft. It was decided that when using the Oryx helicopter the
stretcher should be orientated with the patient’s feet in the direction of
flight. The backrope would have to
be adjusted accordingly. After take-off the Oryx flew to the east face, located the Pulpit and inserted team A (including D15) as planned. A short trip over the Back Table brought the aircraft to Wood Buttress, where team B (including D42) was inserted without hitch. Weather conditions on the west side were near perfect. Team A had a slight hassle as the wind shifted direction, requiring the chopper to face in the opposite direction as was anticipated. The stretcher and backrope were quickly moved. Both teams were then extracted without further problems, and the Oryx returned to Ysterplaat. At the debrief certain points were raised:
On the whole, the exercise was deemed to be a success. All personnel stood down at 1245 hours. Ross Hofmeyr, D42 FIELD OPERATIVE TRAINING: 9 FEBRUARY 2002D13, D15, D39, D42, D43 and D48 met at Helderberg Fire at
1400B. The aim of the session, presented by D42 and D48, was to
demonstrate and discuss the use of the Troll Alphen stretcher; to become
familiar with it’s various modes of application, and to practice the
deployment of a 3:1 mechanical advantage system for raising and lowering
stretchers. The Troll Alphen stretcher was used to demonstrate the
configuration for carrying and for vertical and horizontal lifts. D42
allowed himself to be secured in the stretcher to promote familiarity with the
practical aspects. As this stretcher is now the most common used in WSAR
operations it is imperative that operatives be confident in its use. A discussion of mechanical advantage was then held,
covering the various rations available and the use of pulleys for change of
direction of pull. The standard WSAR 3:1 systems were then demonstrated,
using both a Pro-Traction device and prussic-minding pulleys. D13, D15,
D39 and D43 practiced rigging this system and performing lifting and lowering in
all the various roles. Again, proficiency in these skills to the level
required by WSAR is vitally important. This will allow synergistic
functioning of mixed WSAR teams in the future. Many thanks to D16 for allowing gracious use of her pool after the exercise! Ross Hofmeyr, D42
WSAR ROPE RESCUE TRAINING: 8 DECEMBER 2001D42 (Ross) and D48 (Gavin) joined a
large group of WSAR personnel in Simonstown.
Metro Rescue, CPSS, Cape Province Mountain Club, and Cape Nature
Conservation were represented at the event hosted by Metro HART.
Participants gathered at the oil refinery at 0800 hours, and drove up
the mountain to the dam. We were
divided into three groups, which rotated between three separate activities. At the near end of the dam wall
participants practised rigging the Troll Alpine stretcher, both for vertical
and horizontal lifting, and for hoisting into the helicopter.
At this location we also had the opportunity to review our knotting
skills, concentrating on those knots specific to rescue operations.
Near the center of the dam wall participants practised descending with
the variety of available descenders. We
also had the opportunity to hone our skills in belaying with a gri-gri. The third station dealt with anchors
and mechanical advantage hoisting systems.
As with all the other exercises, emphasis was placed on using
standardized systems, techniques and equipment. This will hopefully ensure fluid co-operation between units
in future WSAR operations. As
this was the first WSAR rope rescue training exercise, it was our first
opportunity to judge the standard of DSAR rope rescue capability in comparison
with the skill level required by WSAR. I
was heartened to see that the quality of our training has been excellent. D42,
Ross Hofmeyr Field Operatives Training: 17 November 2001D15, D36,
D39, D42, D43 and new members Petri du Plooy and Christian Webster gathered at
1400B for this event at the Old Quarry in Oranjezicht, Cape Town.
Due to unfortunate circumstances D48 was unable to join the group. However, we were able to achieve his set goals in his
absence. Using the
cleaner cliffs on the north side of the quarry, several ropes were put in
place allowing descending and ascending on vertical and overhanging rock.
A re-belay was set up under an overhang to simulate operational
conditions, and several operatives descended and re-ascended through this
system – excellent practice for rescues requiring SRT (Single Rope
Techniques). Two
top-ropes were used to refresh the principles of belaying a climber, with some
hardy members (successfully) attempting a grade 22 climb. Although rock-climbing is a technique seldom used in rescue,
the ability to belay and a comfortable attitude to working in a vertical world
are both essential. We departed,
satisfied, at 1700B. (As an afterthought it may be interesting to note that in the quarry area no comms were possible on TAC2/3; we did, however, have good comms on the Farmwatch Emergency Channel) D42,
Ross Hofmeyr WSAR CAVE RESCUE Training Exercise: 11 November 2001Organizations represented: 8 CNC (Cape Nature Conservation) 12 CPSS (Cape Province Speleological Society) 4 HART (Metro Hi-Angle Rescue Team) 2 Metro (Metro Rescue paramedics) 4 CPMC (Cape Province Mountain Cub) 3
DSAR
(D38, Fabrice, D39 Alex, D42, Ross) Dion Tromp of HART in conjunction with
the CPSS co-coordinated the event, using the Oriad Halls and Devil’s Pit
caves on the mountain between Silvermine and Kalk Bay.
This area is riddled with caves and is therefore very popular with speleologists
and day-trippers alike. There is
a good likelihood that should cave rescue become necessary, it will occur in
this area. The large group gathered at 0800B at
Silvermine. Two 4WD vehicles
carried the equipment a few kilometers up the mountain whilst the majority of
participants walked. On meeting
the vehicles we assembled the necessary gear (quite a weight!) and proceeded
for 30 minutes over series of ascending ridges and down to the caves. We were briefed on the two types of
stretcher used for cave rescue – the Petzl Nest and Hi-Angle’s Cocoon, as
well as the HED (Harness Extrication Device).
The Nest is predominantly used for rescues where protecting the patient
is a high priority – it is fairly water and sand proof and helps maintain
body heat. The patient can also
be packaged inside a sleeping bag. A
Perspex underside stiffened with removable wooden slats provides good
lengthwise stability but still allowing the stretcher to flex. The Cocoon is very similar in construction to a SKED
stretcher, relying on lateral curvature to provide stability lengthwise.
If the patient is first packaged into a HED is allows for vertical
extraction and is more suited to technical rope work than the Nest.
It also rolls into a small (1000x100mm diameter) tubular bag and is
very light to carry. The group was divided into two –
those with experience in technical rope-access rescue to perform a simulated
vertical extraction using the Cocoon/HED combination, and the rest to perform
an extraction with the Nest through the tight passages of Oriad Halls.
Dion advised us to join the latter group, although in hindsight it is
clear that the DSAR training we have undergone would have been sufficient to
manage the technical work. D38
and I went to Oriad Halls to test comms and assist with the extrication while
D39 assisted with the hauling at Devil’s Pit. The Oriad Halls exercise involved
either abseiling or descending caving ladders from the top entrance to the
cave floor 15m below. Once the
first few had descended I set off to explore the cave system, taking a
portable and performing radio checks with D38 at the cave entrance.
Despite the distance penetrated into the system (perhaps 200m) through
solid rock the comms were functional throughout.
By the time of my return the entire group had descended and we were
guided in putting a “patient” into the stretcher by the one of the rescue
medics. The distance to the exit
of Oriad Halls is only 75m from the main chamber, but the passage is very low
(crawling only) and partially filled with water and mud.
One very tight section proved very problematic – a 100°
turn in a 600mm diameter tunnel. Our
original patient became very claustrophobic and had to be replaced.
Eventually the turn was conquered (although some rescuers skin was
lost!) and a short rope-assisted haul lifted the patient back into the warm
sunshine. The rescuers emerged
wet, dirty but still smiling. The Devil’s Pit exercise was still
in full swing – literally. Three
rope systems were in place – a re-belay rope to allow entry and exit of the
cave, the main hauling line and a belay line.
Another gullible “patient” was suspended on the hauling line, but
had to be lowered down to the cave floor again due to the rope becoming caught
in a crack. Once this problem was
solved the patient was hauled up to the top and allowed to exit form his
prison of strapping. The
equipment was swiftly checked and packed, and all parties returned to the
vehicles. A short positive debrief was held. We duly loaded all 32 persons into – or onto – the 4WDs
and proceeded down the mountain. All
parties stood down at around 1630B. D42,
Ross Hofmeyr DSAR FIELD OPERATIVES TRAINING, HELDERBERG FIRE: 3 NOVEMBER 2001D13, D15, D38, D39, D42, D43 and one prospective new member
met at Helderberg Fire at 1400B. D48 presented a lecture on all the
available rope rescue equipment, as a recap for the field operatives and an
introduction for the 4x4 operatives present. Two ropes were anchored in
the rafters of the fire station garage, which all present used to practice
ascending and descending with a variety of methods. Some operatives tested
different combinations of equipment while others became familiar with the basic
techniques. D48 and D15 also presented TRE01 (Emergency Response
Trailer - Equipment) by way of facilitating a complete unpacking of the
ERT. Operatives examined the contents of all the boxes, located the
resources available in the trailer and assembled some of the antennae. The
trailer was also cleaned and some missing items noted for replacement. Photo: Ross Hofmeyr
D48, D13 and D42 joined METRO’s Dr Wayne Smith and
members of METRO High-Angle Rescue, METRO Rescue, the Mountain Club of South
Africa and Cape Nature Conservation, all under the auspices of Wilderness Search
and Rescue (WSAR) for a combined training operation at the SAAF’s Ysterplaat
Air Force Base at 0900B. A briefing/lecture was given by the SAAF covering aspects
of helicopter operations, basic aerodynamics, problems specific to chopper ops
in wilderness settings, safety, communications, preparation of landing zones and
winching SOPs. The two helicopters commonly used in rescue operations were
discussed:
A hands-on briefing in the hangers followed the theory
session. We had the opportunity to inspect Oryx and Alo III both inside
and out. The flight engineers were available to demonstrate and answer
questions. Dion Tromp of METRO HART also demonstrated the safety rigging
that has been developed for use in the choppers, and the rigging of the Troll
Alpine stretcher with a backrope as used in patient extraction. An Alouette III was used for the practical training in
winching techniques. The different units were encouraged to mingle and
form pairs, who were then winched one at a time into the helicopter. For
DSAR personnel it was a valuable opportunity to test the combination of flight
suit, harness and rucksack that we have developed. Once in a hover 10m
above ground level the flight engineer lowered the winch cable to the ground.
The operative to be winched attached the cable clip to a short sling in turn
connected to his/her harness. Readiness for the winch is indicated to the
flight engineer by means of a “thumbs-up.” The winching process is
fast (at a winch speed of 1.25m/second) until just below the level of the door,
at which stage the engineer winches slowly, pulling the operative backwards into
the chopper. The operative connects a safety line to the fuselage and then
disengages form the winch cable. Once both operatives had been winched
safely the helicopter flew a fast circuit of the airfield and touched down to
allow disembarkation. At the debriefing, some feedback came to light:
It was evident from the positive feedback and co-operation
that the exercise was a great success. D42 Ross Hofmeyr FIELD OPERATIVE EXERCISE - STEENBRAS GORGE: 11 AUGUST 2001D13, D15, D43, D48 and myself (D42) met at the bridge at the bottom of the Steenbras River Gorge at 1400B. Our aim was to reconnoiter the lower reaches of the kloof, as several rescues have taken place here in the past. D48 was also enthusiastic to cover some more rope-access rescue work. On entering the kloof it was quickly evident that a network of small paths existed, which could have caused confusion in the event of a rescue. However, we soon negotiated these and began walking in the kloof proper. The path crosses the river twice, once before and once after the nature reserve fence. This is worth noting, as the quick runoff in winter rains could make crossing with gear, stretchers, etc. very difficult. The terrain in the kloof is rugged, even on the demarcated paths. The path climbed a small ridge after the second crossing, from which one can see at least half the way up to the dam wall. As there is no TAC 2 or TAC 3 coverage in the gorge, it is worth noting that the small koppie on the end of the ridge would provide an excellent relay point. A nearby steep rock slope provided a good location for practicing rope work. After a brief discussion we set up an in-line and a collateral anchor, from which we emulated a stretcher hauling and lowering system. D13 was volunteered as the weight on the end of the rope; we raised and lowered him a few times to get the feel of the equipment. One pertinent lesson was the need to place anchors very carefully – ours were too far apart. It is this type of lesson that makes regular practical training essential. Once we had completed the rope work we returned to the mouth of the gorge. The bridge here was used in the past for a helicopter LZ due to the lack of other suitable locations. The exercise completed, we climbed up to our vehicles and went to enjoy a relaxed wind-down snack in Gordon’s Bay. D42 Ross Hofmeyr
BRONTO ABSEIL EXERCISE: 9 JUNE 2001On Saturday the 9th of June 2001 Gavin, Roy, Dylan, Ross,
Melina and myself (Tom) met at the Helderberg fire station at 14h00. We had to wait for the stations rescue vehicle which would supply us with
extra harnesses and descenders. But time was not wasted and Gavin started the
tough task of filling our minds with the necessary theory that was needed for
the ascending and abseiling. First lesson: using the ascenders. This is where I started becoming just a
little bit skeptical. Two little fragile looking gadgets made of light
aluminium where supposed to hold my 100kg on a rope. By that time the rescue
vehicle had arrived and I was able to test it for myself and I started to gain
trust in the equipment. Second lesson: changing from the ascenders to the descender whilst hanging
on the rope. No problem once the rope was put into the descender the right way
up. I must be honest that I had more faith in the descender since it was made
of solid steel and cost about three times as much an ascender! The final lesson: abseiling from a 30m crane. I decided go on the first
team that went up (don’t ask me why). It was Gavin, Roy and me. The first thing that I realized was that 30m looked different when one was
at the top! But there was a railing so everything was fine. And then it
started! I was voted to go first (which I did not find to be democratic). I
had to step out onto a small platform. Gavin attached the descender to my
harness. This is when I started getting really nervous. Then when he told me
to lean back I first thought he was joking, but very quickly found out that he
was quite serious. I had thought that I would somehow get to roll over the
edge. After a bit of “stress counseling” I finally let go of the railing
and started to lean back, constantly doubting my sanity. I was now 90’ over
the edge. I don’t really remember what happened then but somehow the
platform decided to fold up at one heck of a speed and send me swinging under
the main platform. I can just remember Gavin laughing and telling me that I
solved the going-over-the-edge problem. I did not think it was funny. And from then on it was a smooth ride down with a couple of stops in
between to enjoy the view. Looking back now I must actually say it was not really that bad and I am
looking forward to doing it again. This has shown me how important training is
as there is no time to waste in an emergency situation. Tom Krüger
NIGHT NAVIGATION EXERCISE: 7 APRIL 2001Delta Mountain Unit Training Exercise - Sir Lowry’s Pass D48, D15, Gert Young and myself met at the pass at 1900B in excellent rescue conditions – dark, pouring rain and wind. We proceeded to have a quick discussion and practice of our map work. I was intrigued to learn the UTM grid system – although competent in the use of lat/long co-ordinates I had never used UTM. D48 provided us with the
co-ordinates for a point-last-seen (PLS) of a “lost person”, which we
plotted on a 1:50 000 topographical map and then transferred to a hiking map
of the area. We estimated the
compass bearing as a rough guide and the ETA at the PLS – around 30 to 40
minutes. Once we had crossed the highway, Gert and myself were unsure as to our position – were we on the correct track or one further down the slope? We debated this for several minutes (in a puddle) until D48 suggested that we gain some perspective on the location. Simply moving 50m down the track changed our perspective sufficiently to obtain a precise fix. This was perhaps the most important lesson I learned - when navigation in low visibility, moving a short distance can give you the information that one location will not. We reached the PLS after around 40 minutes – and about 50m from the target that D48 had set. Climbing further up the mountain
into the cloud illustrated to me the effect of low visibility – I knew we
would pass under a power line but only realized I was doing so when I heard
the buzz of shorting electricity. The
cable a few meters above my head and the poles to each side were invisible. Our climb brought us out at the historic cannons, where we took a brief rest and had a discussion on equipment. Although personal preferences differ, it is imperative to have a good rainproof jacket and warm clothing. Gortex pants certainly were an asset to me, too ! We retraced out steps to the end point, sodden but satisfied. Ross Hofmeyr, D42. (Many
thanks to Alison and Roy for hospitality and hot drinks after the exercise !) FIELD OPERATIVES TRAINING - HELDERBERG FIRE: 9 FEBRUARY 2001D13, D15, D39, D42, D43 and D48 met at
Helderberg Fire at 1400B. The
aim of the session, presented by D42 and D48, was to demonstrate and discuss the
use of the Troll Alphen stretcher; to become familiar with it’s various modes
of application, and to practice the deployment of a 3:1 mechanical advantage
system for raising and lowering stretchers. The Troll Alphen stretcher was used to
demonstrate the configuration for carrying and for vertical and horizontal
lifts. D42 allowed himself to be
secured in the stretcher to promote familiarity with the practical aspects.
As this stretcher is now the most common used in WSAR operations it is
imperative that operatives be confident in its use. A discussion of mechanical advantage was
then held, covering the various rations available and the use of pulleys for
change of direction of pull. The
standard WSAR 3:1 systems were then demonstrated, using both a Pro-Traction
device and prussic-minding pulleys. D13,
D15, D39 and D43 practiced rigging this system and performing lifting and
lowering in all the various roles. Again,
proficiency in these skills to the level required by WSAR is vitally important.
This will allow synergistic functioning of mixed WSAR teams in the
future. Many thanks to D16 for allowing gracious use of her pool after the exercise! Ross Hofmeyr, D42 ABSEIL EXERCISE: 11 NOVEMBER 2000On Saturday 11 November
DSAR had an abseil training exercise at Sir Lowry’s Pass. Dougie Hey, Roy van
Schoor, Gavin Holroyd and myself attended. We parked at the lookout point and
then proceeded to the Nature Reserve area for a quick hike to the abseil
location. The hike involved climbing up some very steep rock surfaces, and
when heights are a problem it doesn’t get any easier. I managed to get up to
the top of the cliff.
Gavin went down the rope first and found the route down to be a very good one for the exercise. Dougie went down next and seemed to enjoy it. Next came my turn. As this was the first time I had abseiled, I was very cautious about what to do. After much debate I finally got off the starting point and lowered myself down
the line. What a great experience! Roy was busy taking pics for the website
while each of us were trying out the rope. He also had his turn and took some
nice pics on the way down. At about 17:00 we
packed up and returned to the car park.
Another
successful training session completed. Dylan
Knott, D13
SAR WEEKEND WORKSHOP: 15 - 16 APRIL 2000This week-end saw us hold our first Search and Rescue Training week-end away. We were granted special permission to enter and camp in a conservancy area, Rusbos, near Theewaterskloof Dam in the Western Cape.
The aim of the week-end was to cover all the required lectures for junior (Associate) membership and some of those required for the Full (Silver Bar) exams of the Rescue Unit. The subjects covered were divided into groups for juniors and groups
of Full members. The Full and Advanced members helped with the lecturing to
the two groups. The subjects covered were Standby Duty, receiving calls from
Landdroskop, obtaining the best out of our comms systems, map and compass
work, The Emergency Support Trailer, setting up a Rescue Base, technical rope
rescue techniques, GPS navigation and night navigation. The lectures were
split-up between theory and then followed by practical exercises. During the afternoon, we also watched a Rescue Vehicle pack-out by Graham Macmillan, D34, who is required to have prescribed kit in his vehicle at all times, as this is one of the modules for the Advanced Membership grade.
On the Sunday, which started off very slowly, some participated in a
"GPS Challenge" while the rest took part in a comms Relay exercise.
After lunch the weather had cleared up enough to have the SkyMed Helicopter
fly in to give us a long lecture covering most of the aspects of flying
helicopters, LZ's, patient stabilisation, aero medic duties and general
information. The helicopter is operated by METRO in Cape Town. The pilot was Francois, the aero medic's were André Jooste and Melony. Melony does this as extra service, as she is with NetCare 911. We will endeavor to continue with this type of training week-end away hopefully every six months, or sooner as the need arises. Thank you to all who contributed to make this weekend a great success. This is Graham Macmillan D-34 Out Letter from Guy Gibbons: "A wonderful week-end in the surroundings of the Theewaterskloof dam. Early on Saturday morning, the 15th of April 2000, we left Robertson for the most beautiful nights stay, camping at Rusbos. The idea behind this week-end was for the Off-Road Rescue Unit crew to practice a couple of rescue exercises such as abseiling, compass work and various other exercises in the actual mountains surrounding the dam. I was highly privileged to do some abseiling down some vertical rocks. It was fantastic. On the Sunday, after a very good night's rest in our tent, we heard that a helicopter was coming to explain to us how they operate within their own rescue service. (The service spoken about here is the SkyMed Helicopter operated by METRO Services in Cape Town - ed.) It was extremely interesting to see and hear how they operate. I would like to congratulate Roy, Trevor and Graham for their input that they put into the week-end. Congratulations guy's keep it up." Guy Gibbons Letter from Kerri Edwards: "We were woken up at first light by Analie and Graham Macmillan for a two day Search and Rescue Training week-end deep in the heart of the Theewaterskloof Dam area.After a ±2 hour drive, we arrived at our campsite, joining approximately 40 or so of the other Off-Road Rescue Unit members. Driving through the gates along the dusty road to our site we were surrounded by beautiful scenery of exquisite mountain ranges, magnificent vegetation, and in the distance the still waters of the Theewaterskloof Dam. Without hesitation, we set off to begin our lectures on different types of two-way radios. After the first lecture a quick cup of coffee was enjoyed by all, before we left for the physical training. Abseiling was first on the list. A quick but strenuous walk up the mountain was where the abseiling took place. Many brave volunteers took part in leaping off the mountain face supported by sturdy ropes and a harness. We all made our way back down and I joined Graham and Analie on a compass exercise. Graham showed us how easy it was to take a bearing, back- bearing and to walk on a given bearing, around a course that Roy and Gavin had set out. We then all made our way back to the campsite after a hard days tasks, to enjoy a dinner and a few drinks under a clear star-studded evening. Being woken up on the Sunday morning to the beautiful cry of a Fish Eagle is a once in a life-time experience. First lecture on Sunday was joining in pairs and embarking on a quick navigational task. We were given a satellite navigational tool called a GPS, used to find co-ordinates. It was definitely not an easy task to complete, especially being an amateur GPS user. Back at site, we were all given a demonstration on Graham's 4x4 regarding the importance of having the correct Rescue Kit. After lunch, the blades of a distant helicopter were heard chopping through
the air. It was the Skymed helicopter from METRO, which had arrived with the
pilot and two air-medics on board. Their lecture and demonstration was on air
medi-vacs and helidrill. It was a fantastic experience to be so close to the helicopter, also to witness the landing and take-off. After all the two days excitement, we all gathered our belongings, dismantled tents, rolled-up sleeping bags and slowly made our way back to Robertson. I thoroughly enjoyed the week-end. " Kerri Edwards
" On the 9 November 1999, Analie, Gavin, Terry, Malcolm, Dirk de
Koker, John Davids, Morne', Nicholas and myself, met in Simonstown for the
beginning of the level 2 course run by Dion Tromp of High Angle.
The first day at the dam wall saw us doing a very quick revision of what was
covered on the level 1 course, then we covered advanced pick - offs, very
low exit abseiling, and mechanical advantage pick - offs.
Day two saw us once again at the dam doing pendulums, high lines and aerial
cableways with mechanical advantage systems and difficult evacuation
techniques for stretchers, both vertical and confined space.
 Day three we moved to an electricity pylon at Muldersvlei on the N1. There
we were taught how to do industrial climbing using cow-tails for added
safety, patient pick-offs from pylons using the Troll Alpine Stretcher as a
working platform while
maneuvering an unconscious patient with the help of a mechanical advantage device onto the stretcher and then retrieving a patient
from the top of the pylon, height about 80 meters.
Last day saw us in Phillipi on a construction crane, doing advanced patient
removal from the cab of the crane.
We all passed with flying colours, yes, even myself. I'm getting much better
at working at height.
Just a note here though, Analie has now entered the record books by becoming
the first female in South Africa to have done and passed the level 2 Rope
Rescue Course.
Analie, Dirk, John, Tops and myself will now become the advanced team for
rope rescue in the Breede River Valley area where we will either do the rescues
ourselves or call in outside help from the METRO High Angle Rescue Team.
"
Graham Macmillan, D34
ROPE RESCUE TRAINING COURSE: 14 - 17 SEPTEMBER 1999
Three of us from the Mountain Section of the Off-Road Rescue Unit
decided it was time to learn some more skills and get certification for the
work that we were involved in.
Analie my wife, Gavin Holroyd and myself, saw a need to get qualified in High
Angle Rope Rescue and teamed up with Dion Tromp of High Angle Cape Town, to do
his recognised course.
The course was held from the 14th to the 17th of September 1999. We met in
Simonstown, Cape Town, for the start of the programme and also met the other
students, Morne', Malcolm, Terry. We began at a dam wall situated on top of
Red Hill. Here we learnt all the theory pertaining to Equipment, Types of
Ropes, Descending and Ascending ropes, Anchors, lock-offs, pickoffs,
stretcher work and mechanical advantage hauling systems. The weather became
very stormy with high winds and driving rain. This did not put a halt to our
classes, as one knows that rescues do not always happen in good weather. This
was good training.
On the last day we moved to Silvermine Nature Reserve where we put all of our
skills to the test. We were given a scenario and we had to work as a team to
rig all necessary ropes and anchors, as well as appointing edge managers,
belayers, and rope haulers. This worked well and we all passed with good
marks.
We enjoyed this course so much, that at the end of the day we decided as a
team, to continue and do the level 2 course, which comes up in the second week
in November. We will be supplemented by Dirk De Koker from the Robertson
Ambulance Station, Deon from Helderberg Fire Station and a fireman from Cape
Town. It looks like a good team. Terry is the only one from Johannesburg.
Until then you can look at the site from High Angle at http://www.hiangle.com and
I'll report back with more photographs and info from the Level 2 course.
Graham MacMillan, D34 out.
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