How are tandem prusik hitches placed on the line?

Tandem prusik hitches consist of two prusik knots that are tied on the same climbing rope or line, utilizing the same anchors or bridges to ensure they work effectively together. By using the same bridges, the two prusik hitches can provide doubled friction and redundancy, which enhances safety and allows for smoother operation when ascending or descending the rope.

This method is particularly important in rescue scenarios where additional security is necessary. When both hitches are tied on the same bridge, they can better grip the rope under load, allowing the load to be shared between them. This configuration also helps in better controlling the descent, as both knots will work in unison to take up slack or hold weight. The effective placement of these hitches creates a reliable system suitable for various rope rescue operations.