When carrying a downed firefighter down stairs, what is a commonly taught technique?

When carrying a downed firefighter down stairs, what is a commonly taught technique?

• A. Solo carrying up stairs with improper posture.
• B. The two-person firefighter drag or chair carry, keeping the airway clear and moving smoothly.
• C. Jumping down stairs with the person.
• D. Slingshot method.

Answer: (B)

Moving a downed firefighter down stairs is best done with a two-person firefighter drag or chair carry. This approach keeps the airway clear and allows a smooth, controlled descent. With two rescuers, one stabilizes and protects the head and upper body to maintain a neutral spine and an open airway, while the other supports the legs and hips, sharing the load and preventing sudden shifts. The teamwork distributes weight, improves balance on each step, and reduces the risk of dropping the patient or twisting the spine during movement. Solo carries with poor posture are risky for the back and airway, jumping down stairs is dangerous, and less common methods like the slingshot aren’t as reliable for maintaining control and airway protection.

Moving a downed firefighter down stairs is best done with a two-person firefighter drag or chair carry. This approach keeps the airway clear and allows a smooth, controlled descent. With two rescuers, one stabilizes and protects the head and upper body to maintain a neutral spine and an open airway, while the other supports the legs and hips, sharing the load and preventing sudden shifts. The teamwork distributes weight, improves balance on each step, and reduces the risk of dropping the patient or twisting the spine during movement. Solo carries with poor posture are risky for the back and airway, jumping down stairs is dangerous, and less common methods like the slingshot aren’t as reliable for maintaining control and airway protection.