Newsletter 7 Introduction by Lance Piatt In the article below, Pat Rhodes presents a thought provoking view of “Central Issues in Technical Rescue”. Central and peripheral; How many times will these terms make it into a general conversation? My guess is, not very often. Yet these very terms are decidedly crucial to our dialogues with friends, family and fellow rescuers. They could mean the difference between making a point or getting pointed at. Is it all in the delivery… no, not really? Is it choosing your battles? I don’t believe so. What are the central issues in our personal and professional lives? Character and Integrity are issues that not only grab individuals, they also grab nations; Presidential candidates, friends and even your fellow rescuers. Trust is at stake. We can dance around many issues and never really face the fact that component forces are at work everywhere, all the time. We all stand before a sword (from its sheath) ready for those who walk in an unworthy manner. Being on the wrong side of compression and tension forces can breed catastrophic events that may not be compensated in time. Blessed are those dwell in understanding these forces and walk humbly before them. A team that properly trains and prepares, will be ready for just about anything that is thrown at them. The trust this instills (with each member) is immeasurable; whether this is a team of climbers, rescuers or workers. Relationships and associations (with others) work in like manner; husband and wife, neighbors and best friends. Character and integrity is the fiber that holds everything together. Without them, the fabric of our existence will falter. Observe them and you will have success. We have much in front of us (as a nation, as parents and friends). We are all students, while at the same time, teachers. David, in 1 Chronicles 21-22, knew where he stood before God. He knew where he stood before Israel and he knew where he stood before his son (Solomon). It takes courage to stand before (men) and honor what is true and good. Is character and integrity worth fighting for? Yes… For the same reason, compression and tension forces will make or break any climbing or rescue system. Central or peripheral? Central I believe.

Technical - Central Issues of Technical Rescue by Pat Rhodes In the contexts of rope rescue, what does central and peripheral mean? Central issues are those concepts that are non-negotiable in the eyes of any given individual or organization. Central issues are the law and they "shall" be followed. Peripheral issues are concepts that are not ironclad and offer more flexibility in the options available in accomplishing a given goal. An example of a central issue might be, "All bowlines shall be used only when. . ." Click on the Title Above for the Complete Article.

Minimalist Mountain Rescue Workshop Sterling Rope and Ropes That Rescue LTD Sterling Rope is proud to host its 2nd Annual Mountain Rescue Workshop. Sterling Rope is teaming up with Reed Thorne (owner and lead instructor of Ropes That Rescue) and Outward Bound to offer this exciting training. This four day course will focus on minimalist approach to mountain rescue procedures. It is designed for the serious rope rescuer wishing to improve their personal and team rigging skills. Training will be conducted at. . . Click on the Title for More...

RRG Catalog Need a printed catalog, but need it now? Click here to view our Newly Updated 2004 catalog on-line! It's quick and easy. Thanks again for stopping by. Complete PDF Catalog (2.8 MB) Current Price Sheet (445 k)

Featured Products

Yates Rope Access Harness $350.00 YA385 ROPE ACCESS HARNESS - Unique harness is designed to meet the demands of the Rope Access Professional who needs a versatile harness with multiple attachment points. Yates New oversize D-Ring allows the user additional space for multiple connections to a single attachment, without adding excessive bulk. (NFPA 1983-2001 Edition) ANSI A10.14/ Z359.1 - 1992, OSHA 1910.146. CLASS III Harness. UL Classification 93F4, CAN/CSA-Z259.10-M90 (Clearance Sale)

Black Diamond Half Dome $59.95 620204 The Half Dome helmet is a cool looking, low-profile helmet that combines a rigid shell with a webbing suspension system. Without obscuring your vision, the sculpted shell offers maximum head coverage and protection. The suspension system offers great comfort and contributes to good ventilation because there is ample room for heat to escape. To fit a variety of different head sizes, a foam-padded crown strap is easily adjusted using a Velcro® closure system. You can take the Half Dome climbing anywhere on rock or ice and you might make it halfway home before you realize you’re still wearing it.

Petzl Tikka $27.95 E43P2 The Tikka headlamp is the most compact and lightest headlamp of our range. With a 150 hour burn time, the Tikka is ideal for long term close-up work as it gives off a very white light. The reliability and long life of the LED makes it very safe. - Specs: Features: on / off switch, LED light, 150 hour burn time - Weight: only 70g including batteries. - Power: Uses 3 round LR3 / AAA batteries, supplied with the product.

RRG TARP (Technical Access and Rescue Pack) $225.00   $195.00  On Sale! TARP CLOSE OUT...Limited to supply on hand. Made in the USA, this design takes the clamshell/rope bag to a whole new level. Starting with the belief that form follows function, we re-engineered each component to maximize functionality and durability.

RRG AZTEK Classic Hip Pouch $30.00 AZTEK-BG The AZTEK Classic provides generous room for such things small rigging systems, or as a multi-purpose storage bag for carrying and organizing gear. Double heavy duty velcro strap secures bag to any rescue harness or tree saddle, large outside pocket and gear loop. Once you have one, you will wonder how you got along with it. Black Only Measurements:9.5 x 7 x 2.5

Reid Davis of RRG is shown here performing a standard inverted pickoff (made very easy by his AZTEK Pro, configured as a personal 5-to-1 system). With over fourteen years of recreational climbing behind him, Reid has quickly grown into a strong resource for your technical rescue needs. You can reach him at 888-600-9116, or by email at reid@rescueresponse.com.