What is the preferred material for strapping and securing victims in a litter?

The preferred material for strapping and securing victims in a litter is 1-inch special stitch tubular webbing. This choice is favored because tubular webbing is designed to handle the dynamic loads encountered during rescue operations effectively. Its construction offers excellent strength-to-weight ratio and is less likely to cause pressure points on the victim's body compared to flat webbing or rope, which can dig into the skin.

Additionally, tubular webbing's design allows for a more secure and adjustable fit, which is essential in ensuring that the victim remains stable during transport. Its use also minimizes the risk of injury during handling, as it distributes weight evenly and can be utilized in multiple configurations to adapt to different situations.

The other options, while useful in various scenarios, do not provide the same level of safety and comfort when securing victims in a litter. For instance, polyester webbing, while strong, may not provide the same level of flexibility and cushioning as tubular webbing. Nylon straps can stretch under load, leading to potential instability, and rope lashing may not secure the victim as effectively and consistently as webbing would. Therefore, the use of 1-inch special stitch tubular webbing is the most reliable and beneficial choice in these rescue situations.