Monday, October 25, 2010

Butte County Search

A BAMRU team has returned from a search for a missing man in Butte County. The man's truck was found in a remote area. BAMRU teams conducted a number of search assignments, navigating manzanita and steep hillsides. The subject was not found.

More news: KRCR TV | Chico News | Facebook

Sunday, October 24, 2010

New Twist on Litter Handling

This weekend BAMRU practiced litter handling techniques in Cave Gulch in Santa Cruz county. Instructors from the National Cave Rescue Commission (NCRC) introduced BAMRU to various litter movement techniques, including The California Shuffle, The Lap Pass, The Turtle, The Snake, and The Caterpillar.

All of the techniques included generous helpings of dirt, mud, cold and wet.


Everyone was impressed with how hard it is to haul a patient out through a narrow passageway.



After the exercise the team met for hot tea and a debriefing session. Everyone then headed towards their own homes; colder, muddier, and definitely wiser.

Many thanks to our NCRC trainers.

Monday, October 11, 2010

BAMRU on Alcatraz

On Thursday October 7th, BAMRU volunteered with the NPS to conduct routine maintenance on Alcatraz Island. After meeting at 0830 and taking the first ferry out to the island, BAMRU began work setting up simple main/belay rope systems over the east side of the prison cliff-side, to eradicate the non-native eucalyptus trees growing over the edge. At around noon, we broke for lunch courtesy of the NPS.

After lunch, Owen, a NPS Ranger kindly let us atop the lighthouse to see the blue angels' practice run. BAMRU returned to conduct an evening eradication session before calling it a day.

It was another great day on Alcatraz. Super thanks to the NPS, and specifically Mike Coffey for being such a great host.

Friday, October 1, 2010

Yosemite Training

Last week BAMRU conducted advanced technical rescue training above Yosemite Valley.

The team built rescue systems in environments with considerable vertical exposure. The training covered rigging methods and techniques, rescue forces, and safety protocols.

Some BAMRU members are also active with YOSAR (Yosemite Search and Rescue), and we greatly benefit from their local knowledge and experience.