The maximum slope of a low-angle rescue operation is _____ degrees.

• A. 60
• B. 45
• C. 30
• D. 15

Answer: (B)

Low-angle rescue relies on straightforward rope work, basic belay control, and manageable forces with standard equipment. About 45 degrees is the practical limit where these simple techniques still give you reliable control over the victim and the movement of the rope system. At angles up to 45 degrees, the along-slope component of gravity is manageable with common belay and friction devices, so you can safely arrest movement and retrieve a person without switching to more complex systems.

Beyond 45 degrees, the force pulling the victim slide increases more quickly, making it harder to control and requiring advanced high-angle rigging, additional anchors, mechanical advantage setups, and more personnel. That shift is why this threshold is used to distinguish low-angle from high-angle operations.

So 45 degrees is the best fit as the maximum slope for low-angle rescue.