Cave rescue by its very nature often involves water hazards. Deep pools, powerful streams, flooded passages, cascades and waterfalls, all are part of the cave’s natural environment. Cave rescue techniques have evolved over many years to take these hazards into account. Regular training, and when appropriate, use of high traverse lines, dams and ditches, pumps, polythene sheeting, cave divers, waterproof radio communication, etc all contribute towards a successful operation in wet conditions.
However occasionally CRO also attends a number of searches and rescues above ground involving deep or moving water. One such location, the Ingleton Waterfalls Walk, has produced a fair number of water related incidents. Our local rivers respond to rainfall and flood incredibly quickly it is only then that the unforgiving nature and power of the waters can be seen.
Mountain Rescue teams throughout the country have seen an increase in water related call-outs, and have responded by training and equipping themselves to meet the specialist requirements of swiftwater rescue. CRO is no exception and over recent years our members have undertaken additional training in personal water safety and swiftwater rescue skills. This is ongoing, and currently we are looking at providing advanced rescue training to more members to ensure greater safety and effectiveness into the future. Equipment carried by the team includes personal and rescue buoyancy, helmets, throw lines, knives and saws, as well as floating ropes etc.