EXTRICATION "QUICK TIP" #54 (RATCHET STRAP-SEAT PULL)

Often, we run into smaller/secondary entrapments that can be just as challenging as entrapments by the doors, dash, etc. On rollovers, high-speed collisions, and MVC’s with heavy side impact, arms being trapped in the area in between the B post and seat can boggle the mind to a degree. Before going to the primary entrapment, I like to quickly mitigate the secondary entrapment if possible. The method shown is quick, safe, and allows a single firefighter to setup and complete in no time. In the case of the arm trapped in between the seat and the B post, many times it’s possible to quickly make access by moving the seat.

This week’s quick tip is not covering all the options of side outs, b post removal, etc. However, we are showing a quick way to move a seatback that we have used many many in training and the real world.  As you can see from the photos, a ratchet strap from the opposing B post is connected to the seat with the arm or even rear passenger leg trapped. Here is where there are options. If I am looking to move the seatback more than around 6-8 inches, I expose the seatback and connect to the round or square tube that the seatback consists of. If I am only looking to get just enough movement to free and arm or leg we hook to the head rest support bar. Head rest!?!??! Yes the headrest. The headrest has proven to be VERY strong and easily provides us with an attachment point to move the seat an acceptable distance making access and providing separation from the B post. As with anything new, get out there and train with it prior to tossing it into your real world equation.

ISAAC FRAZIER is a Special Operations Lieutenant with St. Johns County Florida’s Heavy Rescue “Squad 4”. First due to the deadliest stretch of roadway in the nation, Frazier teaches from personal street experience providing tried and true tactics. Frazier is the owner of Tactical Advantage Training and creator of the course Tactical Extrication. Frazier travels nationally sharing his passion teaching fire and extrication courses. Frazier is a FDIC lead HOT instructor, FDIC lecturer, Fire Engineering Contributor, Fire Officer II, FL Paramedic, Special Operations Officer, Florida State Instructor, FLUSAR Tech, Diver, and FL Hazmat Tech.  www.TrainTacticalAdvantage.com