Improvised Stretcher Rescue
In groups of six, students build a stretcher from two poles and a rope laced back and forth, then carry a weighted mat through a short cone course. Students practice applying knots to rescue, group coordination and safe lifting.
How to play
- Demonstrate the stretcher in 5 minutes: two poles about 20 inches apart, a 25- to 30-foot rope tied with a clove hitch at one end and laced back and forth between the poles every 8 inches, finished with another clove hitch.
- Make 4 groups of 6 and assign roles: two tiers, two pole holders, one checker and one rescue leader who gives the commands.
- Each group builds its stretcher in about 8 minutes. Check the tension before anything is loaded.
- Place a small folded mat on the stretcher (never a classmate). Four carriers lift on the call "On three," keeping backs straight and bending their knees.
- Carry the load along a 30-yard cone course with a turn and a narrow section without dropping the mat. Switch carriers halfway.
- Each group does 2 runs (about 8 minutes). At the end, spend 2 minutes discussing what to check before moving a real injured person.
Rules
- Never carry a classmate on the stretcher; equipment only.
- Lift and lower the load together, only on the rescue leader's command.
- Keep your back straight and lift with your legs.
- If the stretcher sags, stop, set it down and recheck the lacing.
Variations
Easier
Make a stretcher by sliding jackets or pinnies over the poles, no rope needed.
Standard
Build the laced-rope stretcher and carry it 30 yards with one turn.
Harder
Add a section with low obstacles (benches, ropes on the ground) and a time limit.
Adaptations
- Limited mobility: the student serves as rescue leader or checker and directs the carry.
- Hearing impairment: agree on visual signals for lift, move and lower.
- Lower fitness: lighten the load or shorten the course and rotate carriers every 10 yards.
Learning goals
- Build an emergency stretcher with improvised equipment and knots.
- Use safe group lifting and carrying techniques.
- Recognize when an injured person should not be moved.
Equipment for a class of 25
- poles: 8
- ropes: 4
- mats: 4
- cones: 16
Teacher tip
Stress that in a real emergency you call 911 first and only move someone if the scene is dangerous. Small 2- to 4-pound mats simulate the bulk well without any risk.
PatioLab has "Improvised Stretcher Rescue" and 1299 more activities ready to drag into your lesson and run from your phone in the gym.
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