During the week of Feb. 22, the Virgin Islands Fire Service (VIFS) conducted vehicle extrication training exercises on St. Croix.
Led by James Bolton, VIFS territorial training coordinator, the training provided firefighters with an opportunity to learn about tactics, tools and techniques related to vehicle extrication and to practice extrication skills.
In addition to equipment, this training focused on the basics of extrication: stabilization, glass removal, door removal, roof removal and dash displacement.
During the hands-on component of the training, firefighters participated in simulated vehicle accidents to test their capabilities at the accident scene. Crews demonstrated emergency scene safety operations, command and control, patient assessment, extrication techniques, transfer to the medical authority and proper methods for removing an injured patient from a heavily damaged vehicle.
“This type of hands-on training will be conducted multiple times each year to give the opportunity to our firefighters to respond to a simulated vehicle accident, take appropriate actions to safely treat and remove training mannequins from a vehicle,” said Bolton.
VIFS Director Daryl George also explained that this type of exercise builds teamwork, improves confidence and helps reinforce the techniques needed to work effectively and efficiently during emergencies.
“Our USVI firefighters are the silent sentinels of the Virgin Islands who are ready to respond to any type of emergency, day or night,” George said. “These professionals constantly train to perfect their skills in rescue and firefighting operations, emergency medical and hazardous materials responses to help keep our communities safe and mission ready during unforeseen emergencies. I am very proud of this team for their dedication and capabilities they demonstrate every day,” said George.
