We would encourage you to constantly broaden your understanding so that you can appreciate the range of operational issues you might encounter. A number of articles are available to read and we would encourage reading as widely as you can.

You should review your organisation's documents that relate to working at height and rope rescue. Documents that you may encounter include:

• Risk Assessments (generic, site or task specific)
• Safe Systems of Work or Method Statements
• Internal training guides or handbooks for working at height
• Standard Operating Procedures

On the course you are going to become familiar with a range of equipment used for working at height. Each type of equipment has a manufacturer's instruction for use and it is good practice to read up on the equipment before using it.

There are numerous manufacturers' websites that contain information and you should visit them to improve your awareness of what equipment is available to use and its potential application.

Although you will be taught various skills on the course, some pre-course practice of simple skills to refresh your own capability will help you get the most out of the course. You should be able to tie the following knots:

• Clove Hitch
• Bowline (including a stopper knot)
• Figure of Eight
• Figure of Eight on the Bight
• Rethreaded Figure of Eight

A number of web sites provide information about these knots. Please note that the final presentation of the knots shown on websites may differ slightly from those taught on course.

Further information on this is available in the Fire Service Vol 2 Safe Work at Height (2006) (Pgs 46-50).

There are options on successful completion of this course to register it towards a Coventry University Diploma / Certificate in Specialist Rescue or contribution towards other higher education awards.

Further information will be provided at commencement of the course.

To obtain a full module descriptor in advance visit the below website and navigate to: CU Portal » Module Information Directory » Business, Environment and Society » Geography, Environmental Science and Disaster Management » Get Modules.

Then click on 259GED for full diploma module information or 267GED for a Certificate module.

All course participants have to complete a medical form. This form should be with us ahead of the course.

The information you provide is treated confidentially.

You can download a blank medical form by clicking on the link below. You may have already had access to one via the Fire Service College. It should be returned when completed and signed by fax (01248 602435) or by post.

Any dietary requirements should be indicated on your medical form prior to the start of the course. If you have any other special requirements please contact us as early as possible.

This course is outdoor based and you must provide gloves and boots for rope working - though there is no requirement for any other specialist clothing or equipment - this will be provided for the duration of the course.

The weather in North Wales is heavily influenced by the mountains and it can be wet, windy and cold when outside, so bring warm waterproof clothing with you.

For delegates from the Emergency Services, there is no requirement to bring service uniform with you.