| Motor vehicle accidents unfortunately represent a significant portion of the incidents that the SLVFD commonly responds too. Several times per year those accidents require the victim to be extricated using the tools many people refer to as the "Jaws of Life"
Fire School during the month of June provided an opportunity to practice this life saving skill. Members of the SLVFD received instruction and practice under the guidance of SLVFD member Bob Nadon. A group of local paramedic students was also able to observe hands on extrication training on Saturday.
On Thursday evening 6/23 members attended a classroom session where the topics reviewed where scene safety and a review of extrication techniques. SLVFD members were also able to inspect and learn how to disable the electrical system on the new "Chevy Volt". New vehicles like the "Chevy Volt", the "Toyota Prius", and several other "electric" driven cars present a special safety concern to responders. A lack of awareness regarding the high voltage systems in these cars could cause a responder to be injured or electrocuted accidently. Special Thanks to Bill McBride Chevy in Plattsburgh for bringing a "Chevy Volt" to the Saranac Lake Fire Station for us to physically inspect and learn how to safely disable the 360 volt system.
On Saturday 6/25 members went to Maddens on Lapan Highway and were provided an opportunity for hands on training. A scrap 1998 Subaru (all hazardous materials and liquids removed) was utilized and members where able to have live hands on training. After stabilizing the vehicle using "cribbing" members were able to practice techniques such as cutting a windshield, punching and removing glass from side and rear windows, opening doors using "spreaders", cutting side posts, and removing the roof, seats, and other obstructions with "Cutters" and raising the dashboard using both large and small "rams". Saturday was a great opportunity to practice and learn techniques that unfortunately we know we ultimately will use on actual emergencies in our community.
It takes a lot of training to operate a fire department, regular training such as this helps us serve our community and helps keep us safe as well. We will periodically update you on the training that we are conducting. Stay Tuned!!! |
