Which hitch is used to secure a litter's tie-in during rescue operations?

• A. Clove hitch
• B. Half hitch
• C. Girth hitch
• D. Munter hitch

Answer: (C)

When tying the rescue line to a litter, you want a hitch that grips the frame securely and stays put as forces apply from different directions during patient extraction. A girth hitch does this well because it loops around the litter’s handles or frame and the rope tightens around itself, distributing the load and resisting slipping as tension changes. It’s quick to apply, easy to adjust, and can be backed up if extra security is desired.

A clove hitch can work on certain anchors but tends to loosen or shift when the load direction changes, unless reinforced with additional wraps or a backup. A half hitch alone isn’t enough security for a dynamic rescue load. A Munter hitch is designed for belay or lowering scenarios, not for securing a litter to a rescue line, so it doesn’t provide the reliable tie-in needed.