TFTC #56 Tree Climber Rescue & Emergency Preparedness: Hand-Off & After Action

Arborculture Canada Training and Education LT by DJ Neustater Nov 5th 2025

After successfully extricating the patient and delivering care within their scope of practice, the rescuer or team must conduct a hand-off and promptly transfer the patient to emergency services. This step is crucial for facilitating a structured, clear, and swift response from paramedics. It guarantees that essential information is communicated, allowing for the continuation of effective patient care. Standard handoff reports to paramedics or higher-level care typically utilize the A.T.M.I.S.T and A.M.B.O approaches. This process should be completed in no more than five minutes to succinctly convey the necessary information.

A.T.M.I.S.T + A.M.B.O = Hand-Off

No Rank or Position Debrief Model (N.R.P)

Consider the fifth principle of safety culture. The importance of support, training, education, and connection cannot be overstated when it comes to preventing accidents and conducting effective follow-up after incidents. Numerous models are available to facilitate debriefing processes. Regardless of the model you select, it is crucial not to neglect this vital aspect of safety culture, as it significantly impacts both your personal well-being and team dynamics. Arboriculture Canada Training and Education employs a ten-step, no rank or position (N.R.P) debrief model designed to assist with stress management and to extract meaningful lessons learned.

Introduction

1. Reinforce a SAFE learning enviornment.
2. State facts and recognize emotions.
3. General overview of the incident.

Analysis

4. Decontruct incident into actions.
5. Describe feelings that surrounded decisions.
6. Group agreement of the facts and feelings.
7. How did feelings influence actions?

Application

8. What can we learn from this incident?
9. How will this change the way you work?
10. Explore situations where this learning applies.

F.T.S.O.L.I

For the sake of learning and improvement

Following the execution of the ERP, the initial scene assessment, establishing contact with the patient, providing necessary care, and ensuring a timely handoff to emergency services, the immediate rescue operation is deemed complete. However, equally significant is the consideration of the aftermath of responding to any emergency situation. The incident does not conclude with the immediate response; it is essential to conduct a debriefing and review the circumstances surrounding the accident or emergency with the entire team involved. Providing support to all team members who collaborated during the emergency is crucial. This after-action review should not be underestimated, as it plays a vital role in identifying lessons learned, facilitating recovery, and promoting both physical and mental well-being. Numerous support resources are available for those who may be experiencing difficulties.

• Never underestimate the dangers of working with trees.
• Always practice and prepare to the best of your ability and in accordance withlocal, regional and employer regulations and guidelines.
• Continuously pursue professional training and education in both first responseand tree climber rescue and emergency preparedness.

Effective assessment, planning, and preparation ensure that time is utilized wisely. Adequate preparation serves as the most effective preventive measure. It is essential to conduct a thorough scene assessment before taking action. Avoid becoming an additional casualty or exposing yourself or your team to unnecessary risks. Being well-prepared for emergencies is crucial in reducing risks, preventing accidental injuries or fatalities, and potentially saving a colleague in distress. This underscores the importance of trained and knowledgeable Arborists who employ systematic methods in responding to arboriculture emergencies, making them invaluable team members with the potential to save lives.

Thank you to the following contributors

All organizations, individuals, and publications mentioned herein are acknowledged for their valuable contributions and support of this article series. We extend our gratitude for the various photo credits, content, and reviews provided by those listed below. Your support, service, and commitment to safety are greatly appreciated.

References

Arboriculture Canada Training & Education, (Since 1999). Entire ArborCanada Team.Engström, A. Primary Care Paramedic (PCP) & Member of T.E.A.A.M.Fire Rescue, H.V.F.D. (2024). Highlands Volunteer Fire Department. Highlands, British Columbia, Canada.John Ball, PH.D., CTSP (2022). Tree Worker Safety Update By the Numbers: Another Us vs. Them. TCIA.T.E.A.A.M, (2025). Technical Evacuation Advanced Aero Medical. TEAAM. Canada.Tree Climber Rescue & Emergency Preparedness, (2024). ArborCanada Workbook. Tresselt, T. (2024). Director of Training & Education. Arboriculture Canada Training & Education. Canada.