parked to facilitate scene operations and to provide protection for the members as they worked. While the members of the Squad were removing the roof of the crashed vehicle, a second vehicle crashed into the Ladder. As you can see from the photo, the vehicle suffered significant damage (likely totaled). The ladder suffered minor damage (tire, wheel, rub rail, compartment door). Fortunately, there were zero injuries to the
members.
Had the ladder not been on the assignment and not been placed correctly, the car would have struck three Connecticut State Troopers as well as our members extricating and treating the original patient. There is no
doubt that all of those would have suffered serious injuries, if not worse.
At all times we should: know where we’re going, respond in a sensible manner, park smart to protect the scene and faciliate operations, and be aware of our operating environment.
Submitted To www.FireFighterCloseCalls.com by
John H. Oates-Fire Chief
East Hartford Fire Department, CT
