Knowing the ropes that are stored in your apparatus is important. Do you carry Life Saving Rope? Or are you carrying rope for other purposes such as Search Rope, Water Rescue Rope or general-use Utility Rope?
Life Saving Rope is generally static kernmantle and is usually 1/2″ or 5/8″ at a minimum of 150-feet in length. It should be stored in a rope bag with a “rope log” to track the rope’s life.
The use of Life Saving Rope should be restricted to that purpose only. Using this rope for other purposes jeopardizes the rope’s integrity, for when it may be needed as it was intended – for life safety.
It is a good fire department practice to ensure that members are familiar with the differences and uses of all ropes that are carried on your apparatus and in service by the department. DC
