When should a victim be secured with a harness during a rescue?

Securing a victim with a harness before being lifted or lowered is essential for several reasons. First and foremost, the harness provides the necessary support and security to prevent the victim from falling or slipping out of the rescue equipment during the operation. This is particularly vital in situations where the victim may be in a precarious position, such as on a slope or an elevated area, and any sudden movement could further endanger their safety.

Additionally, fitting the harness prior to any lifting or lowering actions allows the rescue team to assess and stabilize the victim's condition more effectively. It ensures that both the victim and the rescuers are aware of the safety measures in place, and it promotes a more controlled and organized rescue operation.

Securing the victim after reaching the ground or only upon discovery could leave them vulnerable to injury, while waiting for the victim to be unconscious doesn't account for situations where a victim may be conscious but still in need of immediate safety measures. Therefore, the practice of harnessing the victim prior to any lifting or lowering reflects the priority of ensuring their safety effectively during rope rescue operations.