Afternoon Auto Extrication
 
December 5, 2021
 

Battalion 27 was already on the road when he came across a two vehicle accident in front of the Roy Ann Diner on Bethlehem Pike in West Rockhill Township. After checking on injuries, it was determined that one person was trapped inside a midsize SUV. Rescue Box 27-25 was dispatched just after 12:30 PM, adding Engine 27 and Rescue 26 to the assignment.

Chief 27 arrived on scene and established command for the duration of the event. After a short period of investigation, it was decided that removing the entire roof would provide best access to the patient due to the proximity of the guiderail. Upon arrival, the crew from Engine 27 quickly went to work, stabilizing the vehicle and pulling a dry 1-3/4" line for fire suppression if needed. Rescue 26 and Tower 27 arrived to provide additional manpower and equipment, assisting in the rescue efforts.

In the end, the doors and roof were removed from the SUV, allowing rescue personnel to remove the patient and transfer care to the awaiting ambulance from St. Luke's Hospital. The crew from Tower 27 was also able to secure the hazards on the second car involved in the incident. Fire police officers from Sellersville and Perkasie shut down the roadway for approximately one hour before the scene was cleared, and traffic was able to safely resume.