While not every company carries hydraulic tools and other vehicle rescue tools, it is still important to review the procedures for accessing trapped victims at a vehicle accident. These procedures include securing the battery on the vehicle and stretching a hoseline in case the vehicle involved should catch fire. These two tasks are engine company tasks and can take place before a heavy rescue vehicle arrives on scene or before other members of the engine crew begin using rescue tools if the engine is so equipped. Chocking the wheels of the vehicle is also a task that can be completed prior to creating the opening for EMS to retrieve the victim of the crash.
This vehicle extrication drill requires you to ensure that vehicles are on hand for the drill, whether you actively solicit donated vehicles, arrange to drill in a salvage yard, or make sure your local training academy has the vehicles for you. Allow about an hour to position the vehicles, disconnect the batteries, and fill the gas tanks with water. If necessary, arrange for the vehicles to be disposed of after the drill concludes.
Plan to have at least two vehicles that can be cut apart, as well as the following materials:
- Hand and power extrication tools;
- Protective clothing including eye and ear protection;
- Cribbing for stabilization (wood or plastic, depending on what your company carries); and
- Medical care equipment.
Position the vehicles on a paved surface, so glass and pieces of metal can be swept up and disposed of safely after the drill. If possible, crush in the sides and/or roof of the vehicles. Use a rescue dummy or assign a member to simulate a victim in the vehicle. Ensure the member wears full protective clothing including eye and ear protection. Assign crews to the engine, rescue unit, and EMS unit. Conduct a predrill briefing that includes assigning an IC and going over procedures to maintain control of the scene, stabilize the vehicle, and provide care to the patient. Use an evaluation sheet like the one included in Howard. A. Chatterton’s Volunteer Training Drills – A Year of Weekly Drills to evaluate the steps taken by drill participants. Every company has its own set of procedures, so modify Chatterton’s sheet according to your department’s SOPs.
At the drill’s conclusion, review the exercise using the evaluation sheet as a guide. Discuss what went right, what went wrong, and what should be done differently next time.
If you have a similar drill idea and wish to share it, please e-mail: chrism@pennwell.com.
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