LAMORINDA, CA — The area around Moraga, Orinda, and Lafayette is home to hikers, mountain bikers, and equestrians, who roam nearby steep trails, hillsides, and canyons.
Accidents may not happen frequently but when they do, they can be high-risk and require special equipment and skills, especially along canyon ridges. Firefighters and paramedics in these scenarios rely entirely on ropes, knots, and other special equipment to rescue people who are stranded. Without skills and equipment, someone stranded could be beyond help.
The skills and equipment fall under high-angle rescue training — picture someone being lifted back up the side of a ridge where they fell — when a knot correctly tied can turn out to be a life-or-death skill.
To manage emergencies in challenging terrain, the Moraga Orinda Fire District received funding for rescue equipment for the terrain through a county grant.
Thanks to a training grant from the Rescue One Foundation, they learned the techniques necessary to use the equipment.
This includes managing rope systems, tying knots, and preparing victims for lifting or lowering.
“Investments like this directly translate to increased safety for both our firefighters and the community,” Chief Jeff Isaacs said in a statement. “The Rescue One Foundation’s ongoing commitment to funding critical training and equipment continues to strengthen the capabilities of our District and enhance our mission readiness.”