Firefighting Knots: Sheet Bend

Series Summary

Firefighters use specialized tools such as the Halligan bar and axe to forcibly enter burning buildings and rooms. Other tools such as the latch strap prevent firefighters from getting trapped in burning buildings. Firefighters also use knives to cut seat belts off victims in a passenger vehicle wreck and use a spring-loaded punch to break windows in a passenger window. One of the most important firefighting tools is rope. A rope can save a victim, carry tools and secure unstable objects. However, a rope itself does no good unless it's attached to something. There are a variety of ways to attach a rope to objects. This is why it is important for firefighters to know how to tie some basic knots. In this free video series, let a fire captain demonstrate how to tie knots. He covers all kinds of knots: overhand, figure eight, Bachmann and fisherman. Also, learn how to fasten objects to ropes. So, take some time, and learn how to tie basic knots today!

Video Transcript

"What we're going to demonstrate and talk about is tying the sheet or becket bend. Sheet bend or becket bend is a great knot to join two pieces of rope that are of equal or unequal diameter or a piece of rope to a piece of chain. To form that sheet bend, we basically make a bite in one of the ropes forming a loop and holding it with one hand. We then take our other piece of rope, come up out of that bite around the backside leaving us enough rope to finish off the knot. And, then by holding up that piece of rope and passing it up through we form what's called the sheet bend. The sheet bend is then dressed and tightened up joining two pieces of rope or a rope to a chain of equal or unequal diameter. Another variation to the sheet bend, is the double becket or double sheet bend where we just simply go around that bite an additional time or second time. Which, adds a more secure knot. So, if it rubs up against something in motion it won't come undone. The sheet or becket bend, very quick effective way to attach two pieces of rope or a rope to a chain."