When do you transition to a victim hoist via rope system?

• A. When the team is bored.
• B. After the first minute of rescue.
• C. When water depth, distance, or ice conditions prevent drag/ground extraction; use hoist with proper anchors and trained operators.
• D. Only in daylight.

Answer: (C)

Transition to a victim hoist via rope system when dragging or ground extraction is no longer feasible due to water depth, distance, or ice conditions. In ice rescue, you’ll start with surface or near-surface moves, but if the victim is too far away, the water is too deep, or the ice is unsafe to traverse, a rope hoist provides a controlled lift from the hazard area to a safe location. This method relies on solid anchors and a trained operator to manage tension, line angle, and rescue gear, ensuring the load is supported safely and predictably. Choices based on boredom, a fixed time, or daylight only don’t reflect the safety-driven decision process that governs when a hoist is needed; the transition is driven by conditions and the availability of properly trained personnel and equipment.