Black Jack Firefighters Train For Any Rescue Challenge

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BLACK JACK FIREFIGHTERS TIM MARTIN and DARNELL TAYLOR finish “packaging” up the victim in preparation for a rope rescue simulation during a recent training evolution.

An industrial worker is found lying unconscious in the lower level of an underground electrical transformer vault. His co-workers rush to his aid, and they discover that he is having a heart attack. The only way out is the 3 foot square access hole in the ceiling above their heads. They know that they can not rescue him without some very special assistance. They dial 911 frantically hoping that the right kind of help will arrive in time to save their friend.

Their friend is in better hands than they know thanks to the training and dedication of their firefighters.

In today’s post 9/11 era, firefighters are tasked with more responsibility than ever before. They are our nations designated first responders for fires, vehicle accidents, industrial accidents, water rescues, building collapses, terrorist acts, explosions, tornado and hurricane damage, trench collapses, high angle rescue, and hazardous materials incidents.

Several times during the month of September, Black Jack firefighters have “played out” specific rescue scenarios as part of their training. In the scenario described above, the simulated victim was a rescue manikin designed exactly for this type of training. The “victim” in this case stands 6 feet tall and weighs about 170 pounds. He is located two floors, or about twenty feet below grade.

The objective in the scenario is to lower two rescuers by ropes down to the victim, evaluate his condition, lower all necessary equipment, swiftly and safely package the victim, and hoist him from the pit to safety. To accomplish this task it takes a lot of skill, ability and teamwork.
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