Story/Photos by Jim Smarr
On Saturday March 24, 2001 , the Tryonota Volunteer Fire Department responded to a single car motor vehicle accident.
The engine company arrived on the scene within 4
minutes of being dispatched. Upon arrival, it was immediately apparent by the position of the car around the tree, that the subject was pinned in.
Chief Tony Cooper was command. A line was pulled and charged as the
vehicle was stabilized with cribbing. Extrication was begun with cordless
sawz all's, electric sawz all's and the Hurst hydraulic tool.
As soon as the roof was removed, the paramedics on the scene were able to check the patient. The hydraulic ram was then used to push the entire dash off the
victims feet and legs. the extrication process was complete , and the patient
was loaded for transport within 15 minutes.
"All of our men followed their training and performed in an outstanding
manner" said Chief Cooper, "especially considering the position of the car
against the tree, making it hard to perform the extrication and also making
sure the paramedics were able to care for the injured patient." At last
report, other than cuts and abrasions, the worst injury was a broken left
femur.
