Tappan F.D. met with complex extrication
 
By Lieutenant Thomas Abraham
July 8, 2015
 

On the morning of July 8th, 2015 just after 09:00 hrs, TFD was dispatched to a reported car fire on route 303. While responding to the scene, there were mixed reports coming in of a possible extrication at that location. 21-1501 arrived on scene and Ex-Chief Garrecht confirmed there was no fire but a confirmed extrication. After a quick assessment, and understanding the complexity and manpower required for the extrication, Lt. Abraham (21-5) requested mutual aid from Orangeburg F.D. (Dept. 11) to the scene. Both TFD and OFD units first got access to the rear of the van to allow EMS to begin to stabilize the patient inside, while secondary crews continued to operate by the driver side area to free the victim from the wreckage. After 30 min and the usage of multiple sets of Hurst "Jaws of Life" tools, the victim was removed from the vehicle. At this point, a landing zone was already setup with the assistance of Sparkill F.D. (Dept. 16), and the patient was transported by South Orangetown Ambulance and taken by Stat-Flight to the hospital. Upon return to TFD headquarters, Chief Simms (21-1) released Pearl River F.D. with thanks as they stood by and covered the Tappan response area in case of another alarm. Adaptability, teamwork, and training played a vital role in the success of this extrication.

 
Units: 21-1, 21-5, 21-1501, 21-Rescue, 21-EQ, 21-1501
 
Mutual Aid: Orangeburg F.D. (Dept. 11) w/ 11-EQ Sparkill F.D. (Dept. 16) w/ 16-1000 Pearl River F.D. (Dept. 12) w/ 12-2000