07/27/2026
The need to reach survivors found at locations above ground level during a flood is not uncommon. Whether an upper level entrance, window, or rooftop, the ability to safely gain access for a rescuer to search for and rescue survivors from elevated areas is a critical skill to have. While this post is about using a ladder IN the boat, some situations may allow you to just place the ladder directly on the ground. Simpler = less risk.
To achieve this, the right tools, procedures, and training are essential. Accepting that “real estate” inside the boat is limited, it is preferred to employ tools that can serve multiple purposes. Having tried various combinations of ladders and anchoring techniques, we have identified a strong combination that achieves the objective while reducing the need for equipment that could be considered a “single purpose” item.
Most telescoping or collapsable ladders available in big box stores come with a 250-300lb rating - maxing the capacity out with one rescuer and their gear. Using a purpose designed telescoping ladder like the W.steps US RESCUE will give you an 1100lb rating and allow for more than one person on the ladder at a time. This is important so that survivors can be assisted down into the boat by a rescuer. While it is a little heavier than the light duty ladders, the trade off is worth it and experienced rescuers will appreciate the feel of climbing a solid ladder.
Depending on water conditions, one of two techniques can be used. In a relatively benign environment, and with the proper configuration, a single-boat method may work well when using a ladder, providing you have good points to secure the butt of the ladder in the floor of the boat. The Zodiac of North America boats with HPP floors will have varying numbers of D-rings in the floor that can be used. A boat with a rigid deck can also be used but will have limited points to attach an anchoring sling to prevent movement at the butt of the ladder. Options there could be the forward lifting eyes on the thrust board or even clipping into the rope line of the lacing cuff. Keep in mind that we are not rigging a highline here, rather we are providing a means to “butt” the ladder and keep it from moving or sliding back when in use. For anchoring, we can use one of the Multi Loop Straps by Anderson Rescue Solutions, LLC to secure the bottom of the ladder in the boat. This strap is an exceptional piece of kit that has multiple uses and, in our opinion an essential piece of personal equipment. This strap will also allow for adjustment that may be necessary to maintain a good climbing angle.
Water moving at greater speeds may require using the two-boat method where the first boat is broadside (bow upstream) against the building and pinned with a second boat. Here the butt of the ladder is placed on the floor where it meets the main buoyancy tube thus “butting” the ladder. The second boat is then positioned to pin the first boat in-line with the ladder and against the structure to prevent it from moving once the ladder is being climbed. The critical part here is communication and coordination between the two boat crews.
Both methods will require the engine to provide adequate thrust to “pin” the bow to the structure or broadside boat.
Some things to keep in mind:
- This is not rocket science but requires working out your technique and equipment needs ahead of time, a skilled boat crew, communication, and PRACTICE.
- Don’t forget that attic spaces may become a place of refuge during a wide-area flood event.
- What is the water doing?
- Are there overhead hazards such as power lines?
- Have PFD’s for survivors.
- Know where a survivor will go if they slip off the ladder - in the boat or in the water?
- What are the upstream and downstream hazards?
- What is my exit strategy if things start to go sideways?
- Where will I take survivors? If there are multiple survivors being rescued from an elevated surface, are there other boats we can safely transfer them to while we have the boat pinned to the building?
- Do not tether the boat to the building by anchoring the ladder in the window or doorway.
- Where is the ladder going if it falls while being raised or used.
- Are you familiar with the proper use of the equipment YOU are using?
Regardless of the technique you engage with, make sure to be vigilant on what the water is doing. Is it coming up or going down? In a flash flood event, can we wait until the water recedes if the survivors are in a safe and secure spot? Is the stability of the structure compromised in a way that the water could move the building out from underneath you?
With a little work ahead of time and practice, this can be a great addition to your toolbox. Let us know what you think - and how you may do it differently. Reach out to us at [email protected] for more info on these ladders.
