Today’s training drill, “Man vs. Machine,” focused on a high-risk, technical rescue scenario: assisting a person who has become trapped, impaled, or entangled in machinery. These are complex emergencies that require calm precision, creative thinking, and the right tools.
For this evolution, we worked with snowblowers and lawn mowers, using pool noodles to simulate limbs caught in the augers. Under the guidance of Captain Cosgrove, our members practiced disassembling parts of the machines using a variety of rescue tools we carry on our vehicles. These included hand tools, reciprocating saws, portable band saws, and angle grinders.
A key takeaway: in real-world situations, we often don’t remove the patient from the machine—instead, we bring a part of the machine with the patient to the hospital, allowing emergency room doctors to safely assist with disentanglement. This approach minimizes further injury and allows for better patient care in a controlled environment.
This was a great opportunity to use tools we don’t often train with and reinforce skills that are critical when seconds matter. Whether it’s a vehicle extrication, a structure fire, or an unusual machinery incident, we’re committed to being prepared for every type of emergency.
