In tactical emergency situations, law enforcement officers are often required to perform casualty movements while under pressure. These situations may involve moving a wounded fellow officer or a civilian to a safer location for medical aid.
In the eighth of a nine-part series, Robert Carlson from Brave Defender Training Group discusses the critical considerations and techniques officers need to master when executing casualty movements during high-risk scenarios.
Casualty movement is more than just dragging someone to safety — it requires planning, quick assessments and adaptability. Officers must determine the best method for moving a casualty based on various factors, such as the extent of injuries, distance to cover, available resources and the threat level.
Key learning points
- Develop a plan before movement: Before exposing yourself or the casualty to further danger, take time to evaluate the scenario from a position of cover or concealment. Determine the safest route and the best method for movement. Avoid rushing into action without a solid plan, as this can cause additional injury to the casualty.
- Patient assessment is critical: Conduct an initial assessment of the casualty from a safe distance. Consider the severity of their injuries, their ability to assist in their own rescue and whether attempting a movement is feasible. For minor injuries, provide cover and direct the casualty to move toward you. For more severe cases, plan the movement carefully, especially if the casualty is unable to move on their own.
- Select the right movement technique: Officers should familiarize themselves with a variety of movement techniques, as different situations may require different approaches. One of the simplest and most versatile techniques is the under-the-arm drag, which can be adapted for one or two rescuers. Focus on techniques that are easy to remember under stress and can be applied in various situations.
- Adapt to resources and threat level: The movement technique selected will depend on available resources, the size of the casualty and the threat level. In situations with multiple rescuers, teamwork can make moving a casualty safer and more efficient. Officers must also consider the potential need to maintain access to their weapon during movement if the threat is still active.
- Reassess medical interventions after movement: After successfully moving the casualty, it is crucial to reassess any medical treatments provided earlier, such as tourniquet placements. Movement can loosen or shift medical devices, and ensuring they remain effective is vital to the casualty’s survival.
Discussion questions
- How can law enforcement officers better prepare themselves mentally and physically for casualty movement in high-stress situations?
- What factors should be considered when deciding between a short explosive movement to cover versus a long-distance movement to a medical transport?
- What are some improvised tools or devices that could assist officers in conducting casualty movements in the field?
- How can officers ensure they balance the need for speed with the need for safety when moving casualties under fire?
- What role does teamwork play in executing casualty movements, and how can officers train to work effectively in these scenarios?
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