Litter (rescue basket)

Litter (rescue basket) is a specialized device used for the evacuation and transport of patients from areas that are difficult to access with conventional stretchers or wheeled ambulances. It is commonly employed in search and rescue (SAR) operations, military contexts, and wilderness medicine. The design of a litter, often resembling a basket, provides protection and security to the patient during transport, especially in rugged or vertical terrain.

Design and Features

The typical rescue litter is constructed from durable materials such as metal, plastic, or composite fibers, designed to withstand harsh conditions and rough handling. The basket shape encloses the patient, offering protection from external elements and additional support. Many litters are equipped with straps and harnesses to secure the patient, as well as handles or attachment points for ropes, allowing them to be carried by rescuers or hoisted by helicopters.

Types of Litters

There are several types of litters used in rescue operations, each tailored to specific environments and requirements:

• Stokes Basket: A rigid litter, often made of metal, with a shell-like construction. It is one of the most common types used in wilderness and mountain rescue.
• Sked Stretcher: Made from flexible materials, this stretcher can be rolled up for transport. It is lighter than a Stokes basket and is often used in confined spaces or for swiftwater rescue.
• Bauman Bag: A type of soft litter designed for use in caves or other tight spaces. It wraps around the patient, providing warmth and protection while being flexible enough to move through narrow passages.

Usage

Rescue litters are used in a variety of situations where traditional means of evacuation are not feasible. This includes mountain and wilderness rescue, where terrain may be too rough for wheeled stretchers; cave rescue, where narrow passages require flexible and compact equipment; and urban search and rescue (USAR) in collapsed buildings, where debris and confined spaces challenge conventional rescue methods.

In addition to SAR operations, litters are also used by the military for evacuating injured personnel from combat zones and by emergency medical services in remote areas.

Training and Techniques

Proper use of a rescue litter requires training and practice. Rescuers must be skilled in patient packaging—securing the patient in the litter to prevent further injury during transport. They must also be proficient in the techniques for carrying, hoisting, and lowering litters, often under challenging conditions.

Techniques vary depending on the environment and the type of litter used. For example, in vertical rescues, such as cliff or building extractions, the litter may be rigged with ropes and pulleys for controlled ascent or descent. In wilderness settings, rescuers may need to manually carry the litter over long distances, requiring coordination and strength.

Conclusion

The litter (rescue basket) is an essential tool in the arsenal of SAR and emergency services, enabling the safe and efficient evacuation of patients from hazardous environments. Its design and versatility make it suitable for a wide range of rescue scenarios, from natural disasters to combat operations. As technology advances, the development of lighter, more durable, and adaptable litters continues to improve the capabilities of rescue teams worldwide.