SRT Rescue Equipment and PPE 3

Question 1

A carabiner rated for rescue use must have a minimum gate-closed, major-axis load rating of:

Accepted Answer

25 kN

Answer

Rescue-rated carabiners must withstand a minimum of 25 kN on the major axis with the gate closed to meet NFPA 1983 Technical Use standards.

Question 2

In swiftwater rescue, wet suits and dry suits serve different purposes. A dry suit is preferred when:

Accepted Answer

Water temperatures are below 60°F and extended immersion is possible

Answer

Dry suits provide thermal protection by keeping the rescuer's insulating layers dry, which is critical in cold water where hypothermia risk is high.

Question 3

What is the purpose of a 'pig tail' or pigtail attachment on a swiftwater rescue PFD?

Accepted Answer

A short tether that connects the rescuer to a line for a live-bait or contact rescue

Answer

A pigtail is a short tether on the PFD with a quick-release that allows a rescuer to be connected to a shore-based line during a live-bait rescue.

Question 4

Which knot is MOST commonly used to tie a throw bag line directly to a carabiner for a rope rescue system?

Accepted Answer

Figure-8 on a bight

Answer

The figure-8 on a bight creates a secure, easy-to-inspect loop that is the standard for attaching rope to a carabiner in rescue systems.

Question 5

A rescuer's knife in swiftwater operations should be:

Accepted Answer

A fixed-blade knife with a blunt tip, accessible with one hand on the body or PFD

Answer

A fixed-blade knife with a blunt or rounded tip minimizes puncture risk and can be deployed one-handed, essential for cutting entangled rope quickly.

(SRT) Swiftwater Rescue Technician Certification Practice Test