KOBUS RollUp Litter Tow Strap: Setup and Safe Use
By Products With A Mission | North American Rescue | Published: 2026-11-01
Category: How-to Guides
Learn how to attach and use the KOBUS RollUp Litter Tow Strap for patient transport, with step-by-step setup and safety checks for rescue teams.
Quick answer
Attach the KOBUS RollUp Litter Tow Strap to the litter's tow points, secure the free end to your towing vehicle or team, and confirm the strap is fully extended and clear of obstacles before moving. Always use a spotter and keep the patient secured.
Why a tow strap changes litter transport
Carrying a litter manually is slow and quickly tires a team. A tow strap lets a vehicle or additional rescuers assist, which can be useful over long distances or uneven ground. The KOBUS RollUp Litter Tow Strap is designed specifically for use with a litter, so it pairs with the litter's existing attachment points rather than requiring improvised knots.
When a tow strap is the right tool—and when it isn't
Use a tow strap when you have a suitable towing vehicle or enough rescuers to pull safely, and when the route allows for controlled movement. Avoid towing if the terrain is too steep, if there is no clear path, or if you cannot maintain communication between the operator and the spotter. In tight spaces or technical evacuations, manual carrying may still be safer.
Step-by-step setup and safe use
- Inspect the strap and litter: Unroll the tow strap and check for cuts, fraying, or damaged hardware. Inspect the litter's tow points for cracks or wear. Common mistake: skipping the inspection because the strap looks fine—hidden damage can cause failure under load. If any damage is found, remove the strap from service.
- Attach the strap to the litter: Connect the strap to the litter's designated tow points using the appropriate attachment method (e.g., loops or hooks as supplied). Ensure the connection is secure and cannot slip. Common mistake: attaching to a non-reinforced part of the litter, which may bend or break. Always use the litter's intended tow points.
- Secure the free end: Attach the free end to the towing vehicle or team according to your local protocol. Use a hitch or harness rated for the load. Common mistake: tying a knot that weakens the strap or can come undone. Use a proper attachment point, not a makeshift knot.
- Assign a spotter and establish communication: Designate one person to watch the litter and the path ahead, and agree on clear stop signals. Common mistake: assuming the operator can see everything—blind spots are common. No movement without a spotter in place.
- Test the setup before moving: With the patient secured, slowly take up slack and check that the strap is aligned and the litter moves smoothly. Common mistake: starting at full speed, which can jerk the litter. Start slow and confirm control before increasing pace.
- Monitor during transport: Keep the strap clear of obstacles and watch for slack or snagging. Adjust speed to terrain. Common mistake: letting the strap drag on the ground, which causes wear and can catch on debris. Stop immediately if the strap snags or the litter becomes unstable.
- Roll up and store after use: Disconnect the strap, inspect it again, and roll it up compactly for storage. Common mistake: storing it wet or dirty, which can degrade the material. Clean and dry the strap before storing.
Product facts
- KOBUS RollUp Litter Tow Strap: Designed for use with a litter, this tow strap helps facilitate the movement of a patient when manual carrying may be challenging. It gives teams a dedicated option for towing a litter instead of relying on improvised straps.
KOBUS RollUp Litter Tow Strap - KOBUS RollUp Litter Tow Strap: Its roll-up design allows for compact storage when not in use. The strap takes up little space in a medical transport kit, so it's ready when needed without adding bulk.
