Two firefighters on top of a building during a high altitude rescue simulation
High altitude rescue simulation, October 2012.
Service de sécurité incendie de Montréal

The high-angle rescue team specializes in high-angle and confined space rescue operations. Their mission, as firefighters, is to rescue people trapped in elevated or confined spaces that are hard to reach. The high-angle rescue team is called in when it is not possible to evacuate people using conventional methods (aerial ladder or basket). High-angle rescue operations generally take place on or in a crane, bridge, high-rise building, silo, well, mine shaft, plant, or even on Mount Royal.

The rope rescue training program includes 60 hours of training. Candidates learn how to conduct rescue operations using rope and hoists, negotiate with people in distress and immobilize victims on special packaging equipment, depending on the severity of their injuries.

The confined space rescue training program includes 40 hours of training. Candidates learn about gas detection and proper methods of ventilation, stabilization and rescue, based on the type of confined space involved.

Firefighters from stations 13 and 27 provide this public service.