Aerial Rescue Event

The Aerial Rescue event is a timed event that tests the climber’s ability to climb to and safely lower an injured climber who is unable to descend without assistance. Competitors are provided with details of the rescue scenario, and they are required to assess the situation and plan a rescue.

This event simulates a job-site emergency. Injuries can occur and as the first person onsite it may be up to the trained tree worker to apply his/her knowledge and technical skills to rescue an injured person in a safe and efficient manner so they can receive medical attention.

THE SCENARIO

This is a timed event, beginning when the contestant first finds the victim (represented by a dummy), and ending when s/he safely brings the victim to the ground or when time runs out. The head judge will advise the contestant of the victim’s situation prior to the start of the event.

The event format is as follows:

• The victim is installed in the tree 20 to 25 feet (6 to 7.5 meters) above the ground.
• The incident has just occurred, and the contestant, as first responder, will assume control of the site, take control of all relevant safety issues, and will contact local emergency services.
• The contestant must enter the tree using a previously installed line located approximately 15 to 20 feet (4.5 to 6 meters) from the victim.
• While the contestant is entering the tree, the emergency medical technician (EMT) arrives. The EMT, unable to perform the aerial rescue his/herself, informs the contestant that the victim must be lowered safely to the ground so that the EMT can perform an assessment.

SCORING

The Aerial Rescue Event is worth up to 50 points. Forty-five (45) points are awarded for each of the six scoring sections listed below, and 5 additional efficiency points can be awarded based on completion time.