The National Auto Body Council (NABC) has announced that more than 40 first responders from Pennsylvania and New Jersey fire departments, along with local EMS providers, have received emergency extrication training.
The demonstration took place on March 23 and showed rescuers the latest techniques in emergency vehicle extrication to prepare them to provide the best response for car accident victims in the region, thanks to the NABC first responder emergency extrication (F.R.E.E.) program and JL Freed Honda.
In crashes where minutes can spell the difference between life and death, first responders to the accident scene need up-to-date information so they can act quickly and safely. Knowing specifically where and how to efficiently cut, pry and extricate can make the difference in saving precious minutes and lives as well as the safety of the first responders.
Keeping first responders up to date on the latest new technology in vehicles is a challenge for every local fire department. The NABC F.R.E.E. program helps first responders stay abreast of the rapid changes in vehicle design. High-strength steel, airbags, advanced restraint systems, onboard technology and safety around alternative fuel vehicles are all covered in the program. The growing popularity of high-voltage hybrid and electric vehicles and the many safety concerns surrounding these vehicles makes this program a necessity. Alternative fuel systems present different challenges when first responders arrive at the scene of an accident. Electric cars, hybrid cars and natural gas vehicles have fuel systems that pose dangers for first responders if the need arises to cut or pry the vehicle for rescue.
JL Freed Honda in Lansdale, Pa., hosted first responders from Pennsylvania and New Jersey at a special NABC F.R.E.E. instruction program to help ensure regional drivers have the
State Farm, Allstate and JL Freed Honda provided the vehicles, Hurst Tools and MES supplied the classroom education and extrication demonstration. Other partners included North Montco Technical Career Center, which provided a catered luncheon, Rental World Lansdale, which donated tables and chairs, and Forge Gate towing for staging the vehicles and cleanup.
