If you cannot find a large blanket, you can try putting together two smaller blankets so they are at least 8 feet by 8 feet (2. 4 meters x 2. 4 meters).
Make sure the poles are equal in length, as you do not want a lopsided stretcher. The poles should also be sturdy enough to hold some weight, as they will act as supports for both sides of the stretcher. If you do not have poles, you can make a very simple stretcher with just a blanket.
You may also place the two poles next to the blanket so they are easy to access. [4] X Research source
Measure the length of the stretcher by placing one of the poles on the blanket lengthwise. If the pole is not in line with the end of the blanket, you may need to fold over the end or both ends of the blanket so the blanket is around the same length as the poles. You may make the blanket about one to two inches shorter than the length of the poles so some of the pole sticks out on either end of the blanket. This will make it easier to hold and lift the poles once you use the stretcher.
If you are trying to fit someone who is a bit bigger or wider, you may space out the poles so there are three feet (0. 9 meters) between the two poles. Try not to make the distance between the two poles too big, as you will need enough material on either side of the poles to fold over the poles.
Then, take the other end of the blanket and fold it over the other pole. The two ends of the blanket should overlap each other. Make sure the poles stay straight lengthwise as you fold over the blanket. If you are not using poles, then you will wait until the person is on the blanket before doing anything to the sides. [7] X Research source
If the person is lying down on a bed with a sheet, you may have the person cross their arms over their chest. Then, you may have someone help you lift the sheet the person is lying on, cradling the person, and place it on the stretcher. If the person has any head injuries, have a third person hold the person’s head steady as they are lifted so their head does not shift or move around. Place the person in the middle of the blanket.
Then, you may count together “1, 2, 3” and lift the person on the stretcher on “3. " This will make it easier to lift the stretcher evenly and bring the person to safety. If you are not using poles, then you will need two people on each side of the blanket. Have the partners on each side roll up a few inches of the blanket on their side until the roll is thick enough to grasp and hold onto. As one unit, all four people will lift the blanket together to transport the person. [10] X Research source
Make sure you keep a good grip on the stretcher poles and the person carrying the other end of the stretcher does the same. You do not want the injured person in the stretcher to be bounced around, as this could lead to further injuries.
