The fireman’s carry is a single-person emergency technique designed to move an incapacitated or unconscious individual. This method is highly effective because it distributes the person’s weight across the rescuer’s shoulders, allowing for greater stability and endurance compared to other one-person lifts. Learning the proper mechanics is important, as an incorrectly executed carry poses a significant risk of injury to both the rescuer and the person being moved.
Essential Preparation Before the Lift
Before attempting any physical lift, the rescuer must conduct a rapid assessment of the situation and the person’s condition. The golden rule of first aid is to avoid moving an injured person unless they are in immediate danger, such as from fire, flood, or structural collapse, as unnecessary movement risks aggravating a spinal or internal injury. If a spinal injury is even suspected, a drag should be used instead of a carry to minimize any twisting of the spine.
Once the decision to move is made, the rescuer must establish a stable base for the initial lift. The person, if not already, should be gently rolled onto their stomach, and the rescuer should kneel near their head. The rescuer then places their arms underneath the victim’s armpits and around their back to prepare for the transition to an upright position.
The next step involves raising the person to their feet. By using the rescuer’s legs to push upwards, the person is pulled into a standing posture, with the rescuer’s body providing support. This movement uses the strong muscles of the legs and hips, which are designed to handle heavy loads, protecting the rescuer from strain.
Step-by-Step Execution of the Carry
With the person standing upright, the rescuer should shift their weight and place one leg, typically the dominant one, between the person’s legs. This stance creates a narrow, stable platform for the subsequent transfer of weight. The rescuer then reaches across the person’s body to grasp their opposite wrist, bringing the person’s arm over the rescuer’s shoulder.
The rescuer must then squat down slightly, maintaining a straight back and keeping the person’s weight close to their body’s center of gravity. This position allows the person’s torso to be draped across the rescuer’s shoulders, with the rescuer’s head positioned under the person’s armpit for stability. The person’s torso should be centered to balance the load.
Securing the person with a strong grip prevents slippage. The rescuer’s free arm wraps around the back of the person’s knee, on the side opposite the shoulder supporting the arm. This hand then grasps the person’s arm that is draped over the shoulder. The combined grip on the person’s knee and arm creates a locked hold that fixes the person securely over the rescuer’s back.
To complete the lift, the rescuer pushes up slowly from the squatting position, using only the power of their legs to stand. The upward movement ensures the rescuer’s back remains straight and unstressed. The resulting posture leaves one of the rescuer’s arms free for balance or to manage other tasks.
Safety Precautions and Alternatives
A common error that significantly increases the risk of injury is attempting to lift the person by bending at the waist instead of squatting and using the leg muscles. Lifting with the back places excessive shear and compressive forces on the spinal discs, which can lead to disc herniation or muscle strains, especially when managing an unpredictable or “dead” weight. Another frequent mistake is failing to secure a firm grip, which can cause the person to slip, leading to a fall that could injure both individuals.
The fireman’s carry should be immediately abandoned if the rescuer feels their strength is insufficient to maintain control or if the person’s weight is causing them to lose balance. If the rescuer is significantly smaller or lighter than the person, or if the person has a known spinal or severe chest injury, an alternative method should be used. The clothes drag or a blanket pull, where the person is dragged along the ground by their clothing or a makeshift sheet, are effective alternatives for moving someone a short distance out of immediate danger, as they keep the body low and minimize spinal movement.
For longer distances or when another person is available, a two-person carry, such as the seat carry, offers greater stability and distributes the load more safely. Consistent practice with a partner is necessary to build the muscle memory and confidence required to execute the fireman’s carry safely. Practice allows the rescuer to understand the required body mechanics and weight distribution.