Chief Concerns Richard Marinucci
A few years ago, there was an organization that was promoting extrication competitions. I am not sure if it still exists, as I have not had any contact for quite some time. But the premise was to stage vehicle crashes and have teams perform extrications.
They would get scored based on their competence. Some incentives for regional event winners were the opportunities to advance to other areas and continue competing.
These competitions were very beneficial to those who elected to participate. They offered unbiased critiques of performance based on best practices. They offered varying tactics and techniques, some new to the participants. New and different equipment could be used, allowing a critical evaluation prior to purchase and use. And, firefighters being a bit competitive, the events would encourage voluntary practice to improve performance and afford the best chance to win the competition.
The end result of this was better service to the public when called to an extrication. Teams that participated found that their time on scene was greatly reduced. This meant the patients were removed more quickly and safely, leading to better care and quicker delivery time to fixed medical facilities. It also improved the safety of the firefighters. This is all positive. The only negatives were the cost, the time needed to train, and the challenge of getting enough modern vehicles on which to practice. Fortunately, being near Detroit, Michigan, we had options and a great partner to help us acquire cars.
What the competitions taught us was that practice improves performance (duh!). Though there is no scientific proof, anecdotally and logically we should all know this. So, the challenge to most everyone is to continue the practice even when competitions don’t exist. To further complicate the circumstances, today’s fire service has more responsibilities and often more emergency incidents that call for service. This translates to less time to train on all subjects, and one that easily falls off the schedule is extrication. But, we should know that even if we can still get the patient out, we will not be as efficient and effective as we could be, or once were, if we don’t maintain our skills.
If you regularly respond to crashes, you should have a good relationship with the towing companies that remove the wrecks. This is helpful in obtaining vehicles to use for practice. Be on the lookout for later model cars, as they offer the best practice. If you have good communications, you will probably be able to keep a car or two at your training facility or station. If that is the case, crews can practice around emergencies and other necessary parts of the job. But this is not just “playtime.” There needs to be structure so the time is used wisely and is focused on the skills necessary to obtain and retain competence.
Working with specific tools is critical to enhanced performance. Know what you carry, where they are located, and how they are maintained. Too often, daily truck checks are a case of just going through the motions. There must be hands-on checks to both make sure the equipment is ready to use and to ensure operational readiness. This includes the basics of tool operation and specific tool uses.
Speaking of tools, there are things to consider. Most brands now offer battery-operated versions. This should be considered. They offer the same benefits but don’t require a separate power source and require less storage space in already crowded compartments. They are lighter for easier maneuverability. Also, make sure you have the variety of tools needed for extrication techniques on modern vehicles. This will include the shoring and struts that have become mainstays.
In many organizations, the training officer is a master of many things, and it is difficult to stay on top of all the complexities of the job. If this is the case for your department, there may be a need to recruit someone to assist and stay current on the constantly evolving aspects of extrication. Tools, methods, and the vehicles being worked on are changing and have different challenges. A standard approach will not work for all situations. Someone must be committed to continually looking at the resources available that can be introduced into your organization.
By now, everyone should know that one of the most dangerous places to work is on the roadway. Too many responders have been hit, with some paying the ultimate price. In situations involving extrication, you will be spending more time in the hazard zone. Even if you are on top of your game, these calls will be longer than situations where patients only need to be treated. Since you are more at risk, crews must apply best practices from the start through the finish of the call.
If an extrication is suspected, send enough units and people to address the expected services to be provided. Anything that can be done to speed up the operation without taking unnecessary risks will benefit the patients and firefighters. Delays can occur if the right resources are not dispatched. Understand that units and personnel are needed for both operational tactics and the establishment of a work zone.
You need to know with whom you will work when involved in an extrication. This will include law enforcement, private or third service EMS, towing companies, and fire police if they are used in your area. Everyone needs to know and understand their roles throughout the operation. There is always a challenge when working with others outside your organization, particularly if they are not from your municipality. This could be state police or county sheriffs, private ambulance services, and tow companies. Make an effort to talk to those who may respond ahead of the incident so any anticipated issues can be addressed before the emergency. Two things to discuss in detail are the methods to be used to secure the scene and the specific roles of each agency.
Extrication training and practice will increase proficiency, which leads to better treatment for those who are injured. Your ability to quickly and safely remove those who are in need will determine how successful your outcomes will be. Too often, opportunities to train and get in enough reps are not ideal because of other job requirements. But, efforts must be made as this is one area where your work can lead to positive resolutions. Also, do not forget your partners who will be responding with you and make sure you are all on the same page prior to the incident. Efficiency will lead to better outcomes.
RICHARD MARINUCCI is the executive director of the Fire Department Safety Officers Association (FDSOA) and chief (ret.) of the White Lake Township (MI) Fire Department. He retired as chief of the Farmington Hills (MI) Fire Department in 2008, a position he had held since 1984. He is a Fire Apparatus & Emergency Equipment and Fire Engineering Editorial Advisory Board member, a past president of the International Association of Fire Chiefs (IAFC), and past chairman of the Commission on Chief Fire Officer Designation. In 1999, he served as acting chief operating officer of the U.S. Fire Administration for seven months. He has a master’s degree and three bachelor’s degrees in fire science and administration and has taught extensively.
