A-Frame
Build and understand the Arizona Vortex configured as an A-Frame for technical rescue applications.
ITRA Technical Rescue Congress 2026
Artificial High Directionals Arizona Vortex & Ground Anchor Systems
A 100% outdoor, hands-on workshop combining Artificial High Directionals, ground anchoring and integrated rope rescue systems using CMC equipment, including the Arizona Vortex and the Wicked Picket Anchor System.
Workshop Organizer
CMC Rescue
Delivered by 4Protection, CMC Authorized Training Provider.
CMC Rescue will support this 100% outdoor practical workshop focused on the integration of Artificial High Directionals, ground anchors and rope rescue systems in realistic field configurations.
Participants will work with CMC equipment including the Arizona Vortex and the Wicked Picket Anchor System, exploring how different components can be combined to create complete technical rescue systems.
The workshop is delivered in collaboration with 4Protection, a CMC Authorized Training Provider.
Visit CMC Rescue
About the Workshop
Build complete rescue systems in the field.
Moving entirely outdoors, this workshop goes beyond the Artificial High Directional itself. Participants will explore how the Arizona Vortex, ground anchors and rope rescue equipment can be integrated to solve practical technical rescue challenges in the field.
A-Frame Variations
Explore different configurations and adaptations of the A-Frame to suit terrain, anchors and operational requirements.
Gin Pole
Configure the Arizona Vortex as a Gin Pole and integrate it into practical rope rescue systems.
Ground Anchors
Explore the CMC Wicked Picket Anchor System and its application as a portable ground anchor for technical rescue operations.
Workshop Format
100% outdoor. Build, anchor and operate.
The workshop will take place entirely outdoors, allowing participants to work with realistic terrain and field conditions while constructing complete technical rescue systems.
Participants will work as a team to configure the Arizona Vortex, establish ground anchors using the CMC Wicked Picket Anchor System, and integrate rope rescue equipment into practical raising and lowering systems.
The objective is not simply to demonstrate individual products, but to understand how different components can work together as part of a complete rescue solution.
Duration
2 hours
Environment
100% Outdoor
Group Size
Maximum 15 participants
Level
Intermediate
Workshop Lead
Guilherme “Toto” Settanni
CMC Equipment
One system. Multiple rescue solutions.
The workshop will provide participants with the opportunity to work with a broad selection of CMC technical rescue equipment.
The Arizona Vortex and Wicked Picket Anchor System will form the foundation of the practical scenarios, supported by additional CMC equipment for hauling, lowering, progress capture and system management.
The equipment will be combined into practical field configurations, allowing participants to understand how each component contributes to the overall rescue system.
Artificial High Directional
Arizona Vortex
Ground Anchoring
Wicked Picket Anchor System
Rope Control
CMC CLUTCH
Progress Capture
CMC CAPTO
Mechanical Advantage
CMC Double & Single Pulleys
Harnesses
CMC ATOM Access
Additional Equipment
CMC Kootenay
Participant Information
What you should know before attending.
Previous Experience
Participants should understand the basic use of a tripod and common tripod variations before moving into more complex AHD and integrated rescue systems.
Physical Participation
There are no specific physical restrictions, but participants should be able to assist with the construction, anchoring and configuration of the systems.
Recommended PPE
Participants are encouraged to bring a full set of personal protective equipment suitable for outdoor rope rescue activities.
Field Environment
Participants should be prepared to work outdoors on natural terrain while installing anchors, configuring AHD systems and operating rope rescue equipment.
Safety
Work-at-height and outdoor field environment.
The principal identified hazard for this workshop is the possibility of a fall from height.
The outdoor format also requires participants to work around ground anchor systems, rigging equipment and natural terrain.
Participants are expected to understand and follow the instructions provided by the workshop team and contribute as effective team members during all practical activities.
Main Hazard
Possibility of fall from height
Activity
Work at height & rigging
Environment
Outdoor / natural terrain
Risk Assessment
Coordinated with Congress organization
Workshop Availability
Available during all five rotation periods.
The workshop is designed as an outdoor field session and will be adapted to the terrain and practical configurations selected for each rotation.
Workshop Team
Led by Toto Settanni.
Guilherme “Toto” Settanni will lead the workshop as a CMC Instructor and ITRA Instructor.
Toto represents 4Protection, a CMC Authorized Training Provider, and will lead participants through the different field configurations and integrated rescue systems.
Lead Instructor
Guilherme “Toto” Settanni
Role
CMC Instructor / ITRA Instructor
Partner
4Protection
Technical Partner
CMC Rescue
ITRA Technical Rescue Congress 2026
Build. Anchor. Rig. Rescue.
Explore Artificial High Directionals, ground anchors and integrated rope rescue systems in a 100% outdoor practical environment.