Technician Level
PRI's Technician Level Course is an entry level program and no prior experience is required. However, even skilled rescuers will be challenged. The curriculum was developed to meet NFPA 1670 guidelines for Rope Technicians. The curriculum covers both individual and team based skills and includes:
         •Rescue Equipment
         •Hazard Mitigation
         •Rappelling
         •Ascending Fixed Lines
         •Rescue Pickoffs (individual and team)
         •Terrain Assessment
         •Litter Handling
         •Patient Movement
         •Lowering Systems
         •Belay Techniques
         •Mechanical Advantage Systems
         •Tensioned Guiding Lines
         •Functioning as a Team Member

The course culminates with a mock rescue scenario where each student will function as a rescue team member in a real time exercise.

Successful completion of a skills test will be required to obtain a NFPA 1670 certificate.

Successful completion of the Technician Level course will allow graduates, assuming continuing practice, to function effectively as a rope rescue team member.

Specialist Level (prerequisite: Technician Level Course)
PRI's Specialist Level course is designed for Technician Level graduates who have a solid background in technical rope rescue and have a desire to build on their skills. On the first day of the Specialist Course, students must successfully pass an evaluation of Technician Level skills. Please refer to the Specialist Course policy (see the Registration PDF for details).

The advanced rigging techniques and equipment addressed will include:
        •Advanced Single Rope Techniques
        •Advanced Mechanical Advantage Systems
        •Options for Ascending and Descending
        •New Tools and Technology
        •Team Dynamics and Leadership
        •Effective Highline Alternatives
        •Implementing Directionals

Less time will be spent on specific techniques and more time on concepts in rescue. There are often a number of ways to accomplish the same task and students will be encouraged to apply what they know to rescue solutions.

Several "real time" scenarios will be presented including a night exercise. Students will be encouraged to take leadership roles on the team.

Completion of the Specialist Level Course will increase the graduates effectiveness on their rescue team and give them needed skills to begin to take a leadership role.