Car vs Tree Scenario Makes for a Challenging Drill
 
By Dean Pappas
April 6, 2016
 

On Wednesday night, an extrication drill had an added twist by including a huge tree positioned on top of the car in which two "victims" were trapped. Firefighters participating in the drill had several challenges to overcome--stabilizing the tree itself so that it wouldn't fall or roll over; stabilizing the vehicle to perform extrication, and ensuring that the victims could be removed safely. Using wooden cribbing and rescue jacks, firefighters supported the tree and stabilized it, and also stabilized the car, which was positioned precariously on its side. After making sure both car and tree were made safe, firefighters access the car through the windshield and rear window in order to remove the victims. Given that recent storms in the area have brought down trees on top of vehicles, this is a scenario that could very well occur.