Do a Fireman's Carry

There are many ways to carry someone who can't walk. This technique used to be a common way for firefighters to carry someone from danger, but is no longer used in that scenario because it exposes the victim's airway to smoke. It's still used, however, by soldiers and lifeguards because it's easier when you're carrying someone for a considerable amount of time, and it's also more comfortable for the person being carried.

Steps

 * 1) Make sure that there is no possibility of spinal injury before moving the victim.  If a traumatic accident has taken place and a spinal injury is suspected do not move the victim.  Only move them if absolutely necessary (i.e. fire).
 * 2) If the person is unconscious or incapacitated, hook your elbows underneath the person's shoulders as they're laying face down. Lift them up gently until their chest is against yours.
 * 3) *If there is time and the person is not breathing, you may need to Administer Adult CPR (Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation).
 * 4) Grasp the person's right wrist with your left hand and place it over your right shoulder.
 * 5) Squat down, keeping your back as straight as possible.
 * 6) Place your right hand between the legs of the victim and behind their right thigh.
 * 7) Using the muscles in your legs, rise from the squatting position and hoist the person's right thigh over your right shoulder. Keep your back straight. The left leg and arm of the person should now be hanging behind and the body is supported by your shoulders. Hold onto their right arm and leg with your right and left hands, respectively, as you stand up.
 * 8) Gently adjust the weight to distribute evenly among both shoulders--this will enable you to carry the person for longer distances, possibly 50 feet or more. Also, try to keep the person's torso level to prevent further injuries.

Tips

 * If needed, to keep one hand free, hook your elbow around the victim's knee and grasp the victim's wrist with the same hand. This method will also make running much easier, since it's easier to keep in balance with one hand free.
 * When lifting the person make sure to pull their torso above your shoulders and keep your back straight. Do NOT bend your back to the side to get underneath the person. Adding weight to the back while it is bent to the side is very unhealthy.
 * This carry depends on using the strength in your shoulders, legs, and back. If the person you're carrying is light enough, you can carry them more easily in your arms.

Warnings

 * Do not use this carry on someone who may have spinal injury, unless absolutely necessary. If at all possible, do not move the victim. See How to Treat a Spinal Injury Victim.

Related Tips and Steps

 * How to Do a Two Person Arm Carry
 * How to Do a Fireman's Carry in Wrestling
 * How to Provide First Aid for a Broken Bone