The Combat Rescue Sling™
A lightweight, low-cost solution for rapid evacuation of casualties under even the most extreme conditions.
About the CRS
- Gives a mechanical advantage for lifting and carrying
- Ideal for mountain, swift water and urban rescue
- Facilitates drags and lifts from vulnerable positions
- Permits rapid extraction from confined spaces
- Provides lifting points and carry handles to assist with casualty transport
- Can substitute for a field ladder or Swiss seat
- Meets NFPA and OSHA safety standards
Military Applications
Basic rescue techniques allow for only equipment carried in the warrior’s basic combat load—rope, carabiners, and the tools in the MOUT Breacher’s Kit (MBK). But efficiency, and thus survivability, is greatly enhanced by a lightweight, low-cost nylon sling supplied by Contact Front: the Combat Rescue Sling™ (CRS).
The primary purpose of the CRS is to provide an easily accessed device to assist with dragging, lifting, and lowering injured personnel who, under today’s combat equipment load, can weigh over 250 pounds. Unlike the drag handle on the modular tactical vest (MTV), the CRS provides a mechanical advantage when moving casualties by ensuring equal weight distribution, pulling on both the legs and the arms, in effect forming a cocoon around the body. This efficiency also allows fewer personnel to be taken out of the fight to attend the wounded, so maximum firepower can be brought to bear on the enemy.
The CRS is 100% nylon and can be folded into a 10"x2" configuration that can then be easily stowed in a day pack, tactical pouch, or even in the cargo pocket of the utility uniform. With a tensile strength of 4500 lbs, the possible uses of the CRS, especially in conjunction with a carabiner, are endless.
Civilian Applications
The Combat Rescue Sling™ offers similar benefits to fire/rescue and police personnel to those enjoyed by combat troops. It is ideally suited for operations in confined urban spaces and in rough/rugged terrain. Its compact size and multiple uses give rescuers a powerful tool for extrications and carries in even the most dangerous conditions.
History of the CRS
The CRS was adapted by Contact Front from a similar device designed by a veteran San Antonio firefighter in response to deaths of firefighters due to inability to rapidly move them out of hostile environments. Developed in 1998, the device is used by thousands of fire departments and rescue experts across the nation. Its applicability and value to the tactical environment was readily evident to Contact Front who then implemented changes to make it well suited for the battlefield.
Who uses the CRS?
The 3rd Battalion, 5th Marine Regiment, 1st Marine Division is the first unit to be supplied with the Combat Rescue Sling™ and trained in its use. They are currently operating with the sling in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom in Al Anbar Province.
"The (Combat Rescue Sling™) will save lives down the road.…We could have used (it) on more than one occasion in Al Anbar last year."
LtCol Chris Dowling, CO of 3/5 Marines
Specifications
Construction: 100% Nylon, 5 loops, 1" thick, 2" in diameter
Weight: 12 ounces (.34kg)