Rescue Operations Terminology

noun a device used to secure a rope in rock climbing or sailing

verb to secure a rope to a fixed point to protect a climber

• The climber used a belay device to ensure safety while ascending the steep rock face.
• Make sure to belay me when I start climbing so I don't fall!
• I'll belay you, bro, don't worry about it.
• The safety measures acted as a belay, preventing any potential risks from escalating.

noun a small crane on a ship or dock used for hoisting and lowering heavy objects, such as boats or anchors

• The crew used the davit to lower the lifeboat into the water.
• Can you help me lower the davit for the small boat?
• I'll grab the davit and get the boat ready to go.
• She used her intelligence as a davit to navigate through the difficult situation.

noun a descent of a vertical surface, as a cliff or wall, by sliding down a belayed rope that is passed under one thigh and over the opposite shoulder

verb to descend a vertical surface by means of a double rope secured above and placed around the body, usually in stages

• The experienced climber abseils down the steep cliff with ease.
• I can't believe she abseils down that rock face like it's nothing!
• He's crazy, he abseils down buildings for fun.
• She abseils through life's challenges with grace and determination.