Each year, the Burlington Fire Department responds to an average of 650 accidents or, as we call them, motor vehicle collisions (MVC). The Vehicle Rescue Team helps the Burlington Fire Department with highly trained men and women who are ready to respond to an emergency and get you out of your vehicle if you are trapped after an accident. They do this by using the latest extrication knowledge, training, proven rescue techniques and equipment.
What is Vehicle Rescue?
Vehicle rescue is The Burlington Fire Department's main role at any car accident scene.
A vehicle rescue includes, but is not limited to:
Scene safety. We make sure there are no hazards on the scene that are a danger to the public, patients or first responders.
Stabilization. Often vehicles involved in a violent crash are left in unstable condition. Any movement of the vehicle can cause further injury to a patient and potentially a rescuer. A vehicle on its side, roof or other extremely unstable condition needs special training and equipment for stabilization.
Patient care. Firefighters are often first on scene and provide initial contact and patient care. In Burlington, Halton paramedics are always the lead caregivers on scene, working hand-in-hand with firefighters to ensure the best possible outcome in any situation.
Extrication. This is the process of removing a vehicle from around a person who has been involved in a motor vehicle collision or accident. When normal means of exit are impossible or inadvisable, a delicate approach is needed to reduce injury to the patient during the extrication. This operation is typically done by using stabilization equipment, heavy hydraulic cutters/spreaders as well as electric and pneumatic tools. You may have heard this equipment called the Jaws of Life.
Vehicle Rescue Competitions
In 1984 the Ontario Fire Marshal's Office hosted the first vehicle rescue competition and learning symposium in Gravenhurst, Ont. The Burlington Fire Department team participated in this first competition and continues to attend competitions and learning symposiums today. Competitions bring together firefighters from different geographical regions to share a range of skills and experience.
Competitions typically consist of at least two scenarios:
- Unlimited Pit: In the unlimited pit you are free to use any tools you wish. Heavy hydraulic cutter and spreaders, pneumatic and electric tools are all permitted.
- Limited Pit: In the limited pit, hydraulic tools are not allowed. In some cases not all municipalities have those hydraulic tools on every truck or available at every call. It is also a greater test of tool knowledge, using different tools that can require a greater skill set to operate.
Each team has 20 minutes to complete their work in what first responders refer to as "The Golden Hour". The golden hour is a one-hour period following traumatic injury during which there is the greatest chances of survival.
Supporting the Team
The Vehicle Rescue Team receives all its funding through sponsorships. If you are interested in becoming a sponsor, please let us know.
Thank you for your support.