In a low angle/non-technical evacuation, who should communicate with command and operate the break?

In a low-angle or non-technical evacuation scenario, the litter captain is responsible for managing the evacuation of the patient and coordinating the actions of the rescue team. This includes maintaining communication with command and operating the brake. The litter captain plays a critical role in ensuring the safe and efficient movement of the patient while also being in charge of the operation of the lowering or raising system in use.

This role is essential because the litter captain must be aware of both the situation on the ground and the commands communicated from the command center, ensuring that the rescue is executed smoothly and safely. A thorough understanding of the equipment, the environment, and the patient’s needs allows the litter captain to effectively manage the rescue operation.

While other team members have important roles, such as the rescue scout who assesses the situation and the team leader who oversees the entire operation, the litter captain's specific duties in communicating with command and controlling the break are critical for the success of the evacuation process. Additionally, attending medics are focused on patient care and may not have the technical expertise required to operate the rescue equipment. Thus, the litter captain is the best choice for this responsibility.