Pete’s CARSTAR, a South Windsor, Conn.-based collision repair shop, recently hosted free emergency occupant extrication training for first responders at its facility.
The First Responders Emergency Extrication (FREE) program is a four-hour course that incorporates classroom and hands-on instruction, including demonstrations of vehicle cutting techniques.
“First responders such as firemen require the most current vehicle information to be effective,” said owner Pete Gutska. “FREE helps keep them up to date, which is more important than ever given the rapid onslaught of advancements in vehicle design such as high-strength steels, advanced restraint systems and multiple airbags. The growing popularity of high-voltage hybrid vehicles also makes this class a necessity.”
Program participants practiced on late-model vehicles donated by Progressive Insurance, while Shipman’s Fire Equipment Co. of Waterford, Conn., provided the trainers with extrication equipment.
More information:
