The Technical Rescue Competition of the International Rescue and Emergency Care Association (I.R.E.C.A.) challenges each team with their knowledge and skills to perform real life scenarios. IRECA has set the standard for World Class Technical Rescue competitions since 1948 at our annual conferences, and has always remained faithful to our resolve to using a minimal amount of equipment to achieve a safe and successful rescue. Meeting the requirements of 29 CFR 1910.146 can be very complex and challenging. I.R.E.C.A. Rescue classes and competitions give participants an overview of the rescue standards and each participant will receive a certificate of training upon completion of the classrooms and/or the rescue competition. In addition, participation in the Technical Rescue competition also earns a valuable 3rd party evaluation (validation) certificate of your rescue teams skills.

We continue to limit the equipment used, and our scoring criterion accepts all types of techniques used in and about the country. SAFETY is our #1 priority at all times since we use live patients in our competition scenarios.

Teams entering the competition should be capable in the use of kernmantle rescue rope and associated equipment to complete a high angle raise or lower rescue using a stokes basket, back board, KED/LSP halfback, or a full body harness. They should be knowledgeable in the use of SCBA/supplied air, tripods, portable davit, building Mechanical Advantage haul systems (2:1, 3:1, 4:1) from scratch, (no pre-made M/A’s permitted). Also, permit required confined space, and elevated pickoffs. A majority of these scenarios will take place in an industrial or municipal setting. Although, we do mix rural type scenario’s when the possibility exists.

The medic’s part in treating the patient is on a 1st responder level using the required 1st Aid kit that is in the rescuers equipment list, plus anything supplied by the competition board (i.e. splints, C-collars). This is an all day competition, having 3-5 scenarios that last 45-60 minutes each.

For more information on our On-Site Technical Rescue, please refer to the following materials: