Evaluation of rescue support stretcher system

A Sarin gas attack occurred in the Tokyo subway system on March 20, 1995. This fatal gas attack sickened many passengers. Since the disaster broke out underground, the main job of the rescue personnel was to transport victims on stretchers to a first-aid station above the ground. Therefore, we researched the development of a rescue support stretcher system for handling heavy casualties in underground areas or at stations in a quick and effective manner. The stretcher system is expected to help firefighters achieve efficient rescue operations. In this paper, we introduce a rescue support stretcher system for going up and down stairs. We also propose an upgrade technique. Finally, we experimentally examine the effectiveness of the system.