Bus Extrication
One problem with heavy vehicle extrication is the height of the doors and windows. An example of this is the bus vs bridge in South Melbourne, Australia. Working with extrication tools on ladders is difficult and creates a safety hazard for the rescuers. What is one platform we can work off of that responds to nearly every vehicle crash we respond to? Flatbed tow truck.
Working Platform
Flatbed tow trucks are available everywhere and can make it to a scene quickly. Based off dispatch information, if you are responding to an accident with a heavy vehicle of a bus (with multiple trapped occupants) you could request a couple flatbed tow trucks to use a working platform.
For more information on the Bus Crash read the whole article on The Age.
Potential Hazards
Based of the work that flatbed tow trucks perform, several hazards can be found on the platform. Fluids from previously towed vehicles could be on the platform. Secondly, the platform can make responders feel safer and forget they are working several feet off the ground. A safety officer would be important operating from this platform. Lastly, the tow truck would need to be locked out and tagged out to prevent the vehicle from moving while operations are in process.
Rescue Platform
Over in Germany at Rescue Days, Weber Rescue has a their “Rescue Platform” that provides a safer work platform than any ladder can. However, the platform would work best with a few rescuers and best for a single occupant extrication.
Heavy Stabilization & Lift Class
This weekend, Toranze Lee and Premier Extrication held their Heavy Stabilization and Lifting class taught. The class focused on advanced techniques using the Paratech equipment, eDraulic tools, grip hoists, vehicle stabilization methods, airbags for lifting, power tools, and the use of heavy wreckers for extrication.
Some of the departments that attended:
Training
Car into an apartment building
In Mississauga, Canada, a vehicle crashed into a large residential building and the damage could have impacted up to 4 stories. Mississauga Fire and Emergency Services stated the vehicle hit the window on the building’s second floor. The driver was extricated and transported to the hospital.
Car into an apartment building
In Mississauga, Canada, a vehicle crashed into a large residential building and the damage could have impacted up to 4 stories. Mississauga Fire and Emergency Services stated the vehicle hit the window on the building’s second floor. The driver was extricated and transported to the hospital.
Building Collapse
Houston Fire Department’s Trailer 11
Check out Houston Fire Department’s new Trailer 11 purchased from Metro Fire Apparatus Specialists, Inc. It’s packed for of Paratech equipment with room for more!
Houston Fire Department’s Trailer 11
Check out Houston Fire Department’s new Trailer 11 purchased from Metro Fire Apparatus Specialists, Inc. Check out the pictures below and make sure you follow the social media pages from Metro Fire Apparatus Specialists.
Overall Pictures
Compartments Pictures
Rear Pictures
