Bailout Kit Questions

[FFJoey]

I am putting together a firefighter bailout kit and need some guidance on a few things. I would like as many of the components of the kit to be NFPA certified as possible.

First off the descender... I was looking at either the CMC Escape artist or the Sterling F4 Escape device. I was wondering which of the 2 you would recommend?

Next would be the carabiners. There are so many different kinds out there that I don't know where to start for this application.

Finally the rope. Like the carabiners there are so many out there I don't know what would suit me the best.

I'm looking for impute on brands and where I can get the things I need.

This is similar to what I'm trying to make.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lT9eC...eature=related

Thanks, Joey

[Doorbreaker]

Be VERY careful about making a kit. The reason being that the entire system MUST be comprised of NFPA 1983 certified parts. AND the completed unit is required to be tested by an independent testing company as well.

We went though this in my department and discovered that it was much easier and cheaper to buy ready made ropes.

[Doc603]

My prefferance is for the Sterling F4.

If it were my money, or the money the chief was allowing me to spend from his budget I would just talk to Sterling. They have premade kits that meet all NFPA and have been tested as a system to meet the same. The folks up there are wonderful to work with and if you're willing to make the trip (I don't know where you're located, they're in Maine). They have a great training facility so you can play with the different systems and learn how to use them correctly.

Just my $0.02 worth.

[captjab]

Check the site... fireinnovations.com They have a ton of RIT equipment, both personal, and group.

[Troyboy67]

.

I'm looking for impute on brands and where I can get the things I need.


Thanks, Joey

There are so many variables, 25', 35', 50', 70' or 100'.
This site might give you even more ideas:
fire-rescueoutfitters.com/rit/bailout_bags.htm

[ProgressiveRescue]

Hey Joe,
Two of my favorites are the F4 and the Exo system. Of the two I believe the Exo is the only one that has the entire system NFPA approved. But keep in mind even if the system as a whole isn't approved each component should be.
If there's one good piece of advice I could give you it's to go with an anchor hook rather than a beaner. The anchor hook will allow you to remote anchor just like a beaner will but it also allows you to simply hook the sill and go. It's well worth looking into.To answer your question regarding the length of rope most systems will come with 50' rope. This may sound like a lot but it's usually 7 or 8 mm rope and packs nicely.
Contact any rescue equipment dealer CMC, Petzl.... they will be able to provide you with anything you need.
If you need some more info just PM me.
Thanks,
Mike Donahue