Human Cork
Squeezing through a very tight section, your plus-size partner becomes stuck. What can you do to help free him?
Of course, it always depends on the specific situation, but here are a couple techniques that have worked:
1. Rig a 2:1 mini-haul above the subject. One rescuer serves as anchor by positioning himself in a secure chimney or stem position with the rope (or webbng) fixed to his harness. Rope runs through a carabiner on the subject’s harness. If the tie-in point is not accessible, rig a runner around his chest under his armpits and attach the carabiner there. Second rescuer hauls up on the rope/webbing.
2. Provide a foot loop for the subject to step up in. Dependent on subject’s ability to turn his feet. He may not be able to see his feet, in which case someone will need to provide directions and/or use a stick to position the loop.
NOTE: We sometimes set up this scenario during rescue classes. In one of those classes, students were able to get a foot loop (tied in the end of a rope) to the subject. They attempted to haul (with subject’s foot in loop, leg locked straight), but were not hauling straight up. The pull twisted the subject diagonally, making the situation worse. It could have worked if they pulled slower and communicated better with the subject to ensure their efforts were coordinated with his.
