On Monday, the evening duty crew and some other members practiced some vehicle rescue skills at the New London Station, using a vehicle on its side. On incidents of this type, stability of the vehicle is paramount especially if occupants are in the vehicle.

Members utilize rescue struts and wood cribbing to secure the vehicle from tipping over -- this assures a safe environment for first responders and for patients. Members practiced using a variety of rescue strut and cribbing techniques. with experienced members helping to train newer first responders.

Then WGFC firefighters used hydraulic-powered tools commonly referred to as the "Jaws of Life" to cut various parts of the roof to lay it down. Until recently, these hydraulic tools were connected to the fire trucks or portable hydraulic pumps powered by gas engines, involving long hoses. Today's modern rescue tools are now battery powered, offering firefighters better flexibility in call kinds of situations where cutting, spreading and pushing tasks are required in vehicle rescue.

The use of the roof flap technique provides rescuers quick access to victims in the vehicle. These tasks are done simultaneously while EMS providers are assessing the victims, and a rescue officer is providing direction to the firefighters.

The WGFC is fortunate to have strong working relationships with area tow companies who are kind enough to provide us vehicles so firefighters can practice these and other skills at our training area at the New London Station. A strong learning and training culture assures West Grove first responders are always at the ready in any type of emergency.

If these training scenarios peak interest in becoming a first responder as a volunteer, please reach out to us on the link on the home page -- we welcome all at the fire company. Email us at info@wgfc.org.