Cribbing

Cribbing is essential in many extrication operations. Its most common use is to stabilize objects. Wood selected for cribbing should be solid, straight, and free of major flaws such as large knots or splits. Cribbing surfaces should be free of any paint or finish because this can make the wood slippery, especially when it is wet.

Cribbing can be made from pieces of timber found in the debris and cut to size. Pieces of 2x4 and 2x6, as well as wedges cut in this size timber are very useful.

Cribbing involves multiple pieces of wood laid on the side and crossed. It spreads the load well and has many load transfer surfaces. It also has lateral stability depending on the ratio of width to height. The height should not be more than three times the width. (Note: pieces should not be under two feet long).

Ladders

Metal ladders are essential rescue equipment, and can be used in many ways, e.g. as bridges. When using a ladder as a bridge, make sure you have left plenty of overlap at each end (a minimum of three rungs). Place boards over the rungs to improve the footing.

To erect a ladder, have one person "foot" it to prevent slipping, or lash the bottom of the ladder to some secure object.

WARNING! Metal ladders conduct electricity. To avoid electrocution, be careful where you place them.

To determine how far the base of the ladder should be placed from the wall, divide the working height by four - a twelve-foot height means placing the ladder's base at least three feet from the wall. For added safety, when working from a height such as a rooftop, ensure that at least three rungs extend beyond the working height.