2. Overview
Recovery Strap Training
• CSFD has decided to place recovery straps on all Type 6, Type 3,
Battalion Chief, 73, and Utility Trucks in order to provide a
properly rated strap to recover similarly typed/weighted
vehicles if they become stuck.
• These straps may be used during inclement weather events to
free or move stuck vehicles (provided they don’t exceed weight
ratings)
• These straps are not rated for heavy apparatus vehicles such as
engines, trucks, and heavy specialty apparatus.
3. Training Goals
Recovery Strap Training
• Proper usage and techniques for vehicle
recovery.
• Cleaning and maintenance
• Storage
• Hands on training will be provided upon
delivery of equipment to each station.
4. Recovery Strap Ratings
Recovery Strap Training
• Each strap is rated for the vehicle it is assigned to with a 2:1 safety factor.
• DO NOT attempt to tow any vehicle that exceeds the Working Load Limits
listed below, or on the label of your recovery strap.
– Type 6, BC, 73, and Utility Vehicles
• Strap is rated for 16,000 lbs. Working Load Limit (32,000 lbs./sewn
assembly rating)
– Type 3
• Strap is rated for 48,000 lbs. Working Load Limit (96,000 lbs./sewn
assembly rating)
5. Acceptable Uses
Recovery Strap Training
• Straps are meant to pull a stuck vehicle out and into a
positon where it can be driven away, or in the case of a
vehicle that is OOS, can safely be recovered.
- Once moved into a safe area it can then be properly
loaded or towed with appropriate equipment.
• These straps are not intended to tow vehicles long distances.
• These straps are not intended to be used for life rescue
operations or lifting suspended loads.
6. General Information & Definitions
Recovery Strap Training
• Web Break Strength, Sewn Assembly Strength & Working Load Limit (WLL) are all different
ratings
- Web Break Strength rating = failure rate during a max stretch test
- Sewn Assembly Strength rating = failure rate of the weakest component in/on the strap
- WLL = max weight the strap can be used to tow/recover safely
• Strap shall only be used within the WLL
• 2:1 safety factor; based on 32,000 lbs. sewn assembly strength = 16,000 lbs. WLL
• WLL based on inspected, clean, & undamaged strap
• Inspect strap before and after each use
• All damaged straps shall be removed from service
• Notify your supervisor to request a replacement from LTC
8. Additional Information
Recovery Strap Training
Recovery Straps are:
• Chemical resistant
• Very dynamic and use stored energy from
stretching to free the stuck vehicle.
• Can be damaged by sharp or rough edges
• Can be damaged by heat
• Straps must be inspected before and after each
use.
10. Attachment Point Information
Recovery Strap Training
• Always attach to the frame or designed attachment point (i.e.
front/rear receiver, tow hook)
• Inspect area for sharp edges and hot surfaces
• Never attach to or around moving parts, hoses, electrical wires, hot
surfaces, plastic or decorative items.
• Some CSFD Type 6 trucks do not have rear receivers and the bumper
under the rear bed do not have reinforcement for towing.
• Inspect your vehicle and know the approved/designated attachment
points.
