Greytown volunteer firefighters had their work cut out for them at a recent training exercise, simulating a crash extraction involving multiple ‘patients’.
With the help of local companies, the brigade mocked up a serious crash in which a truck had rolled on top of a car, and two people were trapped.
Greytown Volunteer Fire Brigade simulates a crash extraction. PHOTOS/NIGEL BAIN
Deputy chief fire officer Seth Rance said all the crews turned out for the exercise, including operational staff and the rescue tender that attends all motor vehicle crashes in the area.
“The crews weren’t told what they’re going to. It’s a mock exercise, so they turn up and have to think on their feet and make decisions about how to get the people out.”
Rance said the “nice partnership” with Pope and Gray, and Wairarapa Scrap Metal gave the brigade an opportunity to hone their skills during training.
“They donated the truck and car for us to cut up. It’s a real community effort,” Rance said.
“As a brigade that has a rescue truck, we get called to a wide range of incidents, from minor nose-to-tails to something more serious like a rolled truck.
“That’s why we try to put ourselves under pressure in these exercises.”
In a post on social media, the brigade said the crew took the time necessary to stabilise the truck – “at incidents such as this, it’s important not to put the rescuers in unnecessary danger” – and rescue a patient trapped in the truck cab and in the car.
The brigade, one of the nation’s oldest, said it was also open to new recruits.
- Those interested in volunteering, visit:
https://wwwfacebook.com/GREYTOWNFIRE
