When removing an unconscious adult down a ladder, what is the safest method?

The safest method for removing an unconscious adult down a ladder involves allowing the victim's weight to rest on the firefighter's knee. This technique provides stability and control as the firefighter can maintain their balance while securing the victim. It also minimizes the risk of injury to both the firefighter and the victim. By keeping the victim's weight supported on the knee, the firefighter can use their arms to safely guide the individual down the ladder, ensuring that movement is steady and controlled.

Using the other methods, such as placing a victim over one shoulder or cradling them in arms, can compromise the firefighter's balance and create a higher risk of falling, considering the height and potential obstacles of the ladder. Tying a rescue knot around the victim might seem like a secure method, but it could create complications when trying to maneuver down a ladder, where precision and stability are crucial.