I’ve been editing footage from classes last spring, and found some clips from an SRT / SRT-A in Coloma, CA where we were able to get hands-on canal rescue training in a canal. It was my first time training in a canal, and I got to see firsthand why they are so dangerous. First, the water was cold; colder than any place I’ve taught, including snow-filled courses in Yosemite and Jackson Hole, Wy. Secondly, the velocity of the water was deceptive, and though it appeared mellow and inviting, it was powerful and hazardous. Getting out? Self Rescue? As a result of the bank to bank current velocity, I could get to the edge of the canal, but could not get out without help.

So how can responders help a victim in a canal without putting themselves in the water? Several rope methods exist in the industry, and these videos demonstrate one of them. The collapsing loop cinch is fast, easy to deploy, and doesn’t require much gear. More importantly it keeps the rescuers out of the water. Two people, two throwbags, and two carabiners is all you need to execute the Collapsing Loop Canal Cinch. The best Part? It works! fire departments in Southern California have had successful saves using a variation of this technique. Check it out. Be aware that this rope technique is hazardous both rescuers and the victim. There is no way to “quick release” this cinch. Once you’ve got them, you’ve got them. Practice this on dry land before deploying it for in-water training.

Canal Rescue 1

Canal Rescue

Setting up the collapsing loop cinch.

1. River Right responder throws his rope bag to river left

2. River Left responder throws his rope bag to river right

3. Using two carabiners, each responder clips the end of the bag that was thrown to them onto the rope they are holding (the rope they started with) Make sure to hold onto the carabiners on both sides

4. Responders take up slack on both sides

5. Responders open the loop that spans the channel so that one rope is at the water level, and one is above the water

6. When the victim approaches, rescuers direct him/her to reach up toward the upper rope

7. When inside the loop, responders let go of the carabiners and pull the lines to close the loop

8. Victim will be stuck mid current unless one side gives slack on their line to let the victim pendulum to shore