Using Standard Chain As Res-Q-Jack™ Base Restraints

On my way back from the 2003 IAFC program in Dallas, I stopped in Nashville, TN to train their rescue companies in the use of the Res-Q-Jack® equipment. They had just recently ordered several systems, however, they did not order our hook and chain assemblies. I introduced Chief James Holmes to the phasing concept I teach for vehicle stabilization where we initially use cambuckle straps as a quick setup and then build on this with redundant restraints such as chains or stakes following patient access. After going through that, Chief Holmes requested we figure out a way to accomplish this task using standard 3/8" chain as that is what they have on the rescues now.

After a few minutes of playing around we came up with a way to accomplish 3-point side resting stabilization with (3) 16' chains as the base restraints. We reversed the stand setup from our typical arrangement. We placed one adjustable stand at the front post and one at the rear post. A chain was hooked to the base of each of these stands. From there, the chain went to the underside of the post. The front chain was run through the windshield and diagonally up the hood to the undercarriage. The rear chain was run around the rear post in a similar fashion diagonally up the trunk lid to the undercarriage. The chains can be shortened by doubling back through the base link if necessary. The jack stand was placed at the center of the undercarriage with a single chain running from the front of the vehicle through the base link to the rear of the vehicle and shortened as necessary. In the same fashion that the jack tightens the base straps, the jack tightens the chains. If a jack stand is not involved or the situation does not allow for adequate chain tensioning at the bases, chain binders can be employed.

After we set this up, I realized how nice this actually was. The way we ran the chains at the passenger compartment side will keep them from sliding off a cut post in the event of roof removal. In addition, we had an extremely rugged base restraint right off the bat that is not compromised by sharp edges or glass. It may take a minute or so more to setup, but you are virtually done, although I always say there’s room for more if you’ve got the material and people and the patient is being tended to.