Who determines the rate of descent of the litter in a low-angle evacuation?

• A. The incident commander
• B. The litter captain
• C. The edge attendant
• D. The medical tender

Answer: (B)

In a low-angle evacuation, the person in charge of the litter team sets the pace and controls how fast the litter moves. This is the litter captain, who directs the crew, communicates with the rope or belay system if used, and adjusts the descent rate based on terrain, the patient’s condition, and the team’s status. The incident commander runs the overall operation, not the day-to-day movement of the litter. The edge attendant helps keep the path clear and supports the team, but does not decide the rate. The medical tender focuses on patient care. So the rate of descent is governed by the litter captain who leads the litter team to ensure safety and coordination.