The document provides training on the use of recovery straps that will be placed on CSFD vehicles. It outlines that the straps are rated for different vehicle types and should not be used to exceed the working load limits. The training goals are to teach proper usage techniques, maintenance, storage, and hands-on practice. It provides definitions and identifiers for understanding ratings, inspection procedures, approved attachment points on vehicles, and general usage guidelines.

1. Recovery Strap Training
Apparatus Recovery Strap Training
Prepared By: LT. Davis & LT. Galvin
Reviewed By: Chief Ortiz

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

7. Recovery Strap Rating Identifiers
Recovery Strap Training
TYPE 3 TYPE 6

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.

9. Inspecting Synthetic Straps
Recovery Strap Training

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.

11. Rear Bumper Wrap
Recovery Strap Training
** Note the bumper
reinforcement bracket.

12. Receiver Attachment
Recovery Strap Training

13. Around the Rear Frame
Recovery Strap Training

14. Front Tow Ring Attachment
Recovery Strap Training

15. Around the Front Frame
Recovery Strap Training

16. Putting it all together
Recovery Strap Training
Video
Please watch the video embedded within the
activity below.