EVAC Systems Chicago RIT Search Kit | 200' Rope Bag for Large Area Search

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EVAC Systems Chicago RIT Search Kit | 200' Rope Bag for Large Area Search

Category: Climbing Rope Bags

Difficulty Level: Tier 4: Professional or Advanced Training Required

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Written by: Valerie Ellis Lavin

Quick Overview

The EVAC Systems Chicago Style RIT Search Kit is a 200-foot tactical search and orientation line system used by Rapid Intervention Teams and Large Area Search operators to establish a continuous, traceable egress path in zero-visibility IDLH environments.

The system is built around 200 feet of 8mm RIT Response Rope with an Aramid/Kevlar sheath that provides high heat and abrasion resistance during deployment across hot structural surfaces. The rope diameter is deliberately sized for tactile detection through gloved hands, maintaining operator orientation without adding excessive weight or bulk to the search team's load. The 1000 Denier Cordura bag serves as both housing and deployment mechanism, with reflective tape for low-light visibility and two quick-release seat belt buckles for rapid jettison if the shoulder strap becomes critically entangled.

Operationally, the kit supports anchor-and-sweep search patterns by providing a fixed, physical lifeline from the IDLH entry point to the deepest point of the search corridor. The searcher deploys the line at a controlled pace while the anchor manages tension and prevents snags at the entry point. Distance marking via knots or rings enables systematic accountability across a search radius of up to 200 feet from a single fixed anchor point.

This system is classified for search and orientation use only. The 8mm rope is not rated for life safety applications including rappelling, belaying, or hoisting personnel. Chemical contamination from petroleum products or hydraulic fluids requires immediate removal from service, as degradation to synthetic fibers is not visible to the eye.

Field Application Steps

1. ASSIGN ROLES BEFORE ENTRY: Verbally designate an Anchor and a Searcher before approaching the entry point. Confirm radio communications, tools, and search objectives with both operators.

2. DON AND ADJUST THE RIT BAG: The Searcher dons the bag via the shoulder strap, adjusting fit over SCBA and turnout gear to ensure freedom of movement and quick-release buckle accessibility.

3. ESTABLISH A BOMB-PROOF ANCHOR: The Anchor selects a substantial, fixed object immediately outside the IDLH entry point, such as an apparatus bumper, structural column, or hydrant. Retrieve the bitter end, pass it through the D-Ring and grommet, and secure with an approved knot such as a bowline or figure-8 on a bight with a carabiner.

4. TEST AND CONFIRM THE ANCHOR: Physically load-test the anchor connection before any entry. Verbally confirm readiness with the call: "ANCHOR IS SET AND SECURE."

5. DEPLOY THE LINE AT A CONTROLLED PACE: The Searcher enters the structure at a deliberate, controlled pace, allowing the rope to deploy freely from the top of the bag. Do not throw the bag.

6. MAINTAIN WALL CONTACT AND LINE TENSION: The Searcher maintains wall contact or uses a tool to sweep ahead. The Anchor manages the line from the entry point, maintaining light tension to prevent excessive slack and reduce entanglement risk.

7. EXECUTE SYSTEMATIC SEARCH OFF THE MAIN LINE: Maintain tactile contact with the deployed line at all times. To search lateral areas, secure your position on the main line, conduct short systematic sweeps, and return to the main line before continuing advancement. Mark distance intervals with knots or rings per department protocol.

8. EGRESS VIA HAND-OVER-HAND TECHNIQUE: On egress, reverse course and follow the deployed line back to the anchor using a hand-over-hand technique. The search line is the primary means of egress in zero-visibility conditions.

9. CONDUCT POST-USE INSPECTION: Fully un-stuff the entire 200 feet of rope from the bag. Run the rope through a gloved hand and inspect for cuts, frays, flat spots, melted sections, or discoloration. Inspect the bag for tears, burns, and hardware damage. Remove from service if any compromise is identified and document the inspection in the station rope log.

10. CLEAN, DRY, AND REPACK FOR NEXT DEPLOYMENT: Clean with mild detergent and water, rinse thoroughly, and air dry completely out of direct sunlight and away from heat sources. Methodically stuff the rope back into the bag without coiling. Secure the bitter end to the D-ring and grommet assembly, and position the deployment end at the top of the bag before returning the kit to service.

Equip Yourself: EVAC Systems Chicago Style RIT Search Kit – Bag with 200’ Rope

Ensure you have the right gear before an emergency strikes.

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LEGAL DISCLAIMER & SAFETY WARNING:
The information provided in this Luminary Global Field Manual is strictly for educational and informational purposes. It is not a substitute for formal medical, tactical, or professional training. In the event of a medical emergency, immediately seek professional help or contact emergency services. Luminary Global assumes no liability for the misuse of equipment, improper application of techniques, or any injuries/damages resulting from the use of these guidelines. Always rely on your official agency training, local laws, and established protocols during a crisis.