United Kingdom Rescue Organisation

UKRO this year was held by Lincolnshire Fire Brigade in the wondaful City of Lincoln and the Rope Rescue challenges were all held around the Cathedral, what an iconic back drop to the challenges.

This is the third year I have been involved as an assessor for the challenges, 12 teams including 2 international teams Romania & Dublin took part.

LFB were as ever on top of there game, but some strong performances were put in by HIOW.

The challenges are set by the UKRO Rope lead Nick Croudance who does an excellent job, the challenges range from 60 mins to 90 mins depending on the technical aspect of the challenge.

Challenges ranged from Cross hauls, tension lines, reeves, cableways & basic rope access skills. Challenges are scored on technical ability of the teams and by the assessor, all changes have a casualty recovery, and some have a medical element to the challenge for the teams medica again assessed by Rope medics.

If there is takeaway from the event it would be don’t forget to keep on top of your basic rope access skills as well as the rescue element. Basic Aid Climbing or ascending.

The host brigade for 2024 is Hampshire and the IOW, this will be an excellent venue and challenge.

Stay safe

Clive