HIGH ANGLE ACCESS

High-Angle Rescue & Technical Access Team

When the Terrain Becomes the Emergency

Reaching the Unreachable

The breathtaking landscape surrounding Broadmoor Fire Rescue's response district is defined by towering rock formations, steep mountain slopes, rugged canyons, and some of Colorado's most remarkable outdoor attractions. While these features draw visitors from around the world, they also present extraordinary challenges when emergencies occur beyond the reach of conventional fire and rescue apparatus.

From the sheer cliffs surrounding Seven Falls to The Broadmoor's zipline attractions and remote mountain trails, reaching an injured or stranded individual can become a complex and dangerous operation.

Since 2016, Broadmoor Fire Rescue has maintained a specialized High-Angle Access Team, preparing firefighters to operate in these challenging environments and reach individuals where traditional emergency response methods are not possible.

Specialized Skills for Challenging Terrain

High-angle operations demand far more than the ability to rappel down a cliff. Firefighters must understand rope systems, anchoring techniques, fall protection, terrain assessment, and the hazards associated with operating on steep or exposed surfaces.

An injured hiker stranded on a rocky ledge, a visitor experiencing a medical emergency along the steep trails of Seven Falls, or an individual requiring assistance on an elevated zipline course can present significant challenges for responding personnel.

Our firefighters train to evaluate these environments, establish safe access routes, and reach patients while minimizing risks to rescuers and those requiring assistance.

The ability to safely access a patient, initiate emergency medical care, and coordinate an appropriate evacuation strategy can make a critical difference in the outcome of an incident.

Strong Partnerships in Technical Rescue

Complex mountain rescues frequently require the combined expertise and equipment of multiple emergency response organizations.

Broadmoor Fire Rescue works closely with El Paso County Search and Rescue (EPCSAR) and the Colorado Springs Fire Department (CSFD) Technical Rescue Team to coordinate operations requiring advanced rope rescue systems, specialized equipment, or additional personnel.

These partnerships allow our firefighters to support initial patient access, assess hazards, and assist with rescue operations while integrating specialized regional resources when needed.

Through continued training and interagency cooperation, our personnel develop the skills and working relationships necessary to operate effectively during challenging technical rescue incidents.

Protecting Our Community Beyond the Roadway

The unique geography of our response district requires firefighters to prepare for emergencies in locations where access is often the greatest obstacle.

Whether responding to a remote mountain trail, a steep canyon, or one of The Broadmoor's elevated recreational attractions, our commitment remains the same: to reach those in need as