Blackfoot Fire and Rescue get new extrication tools

Extrication tools are vital to first responders to ensure that they are getting crash victims out of vehicles in a timely manner so they can seek medical treatment.

On Monday, Aug 23, Blackfoot Fire and Rescue became the proud recipient of a new set of Genesis electric extrication tools which they can now use to safely remove a trapped person from a cramped or small space without making additional injury or damage to drivers involved in accidents.

“Blackfoot Fire is situated on one of the main highways into the County – Highway #16. Having the increased ability to provide these services, in co-operation with our regional partners and other County fire stations, is a key component of our Strategic Plan moving forward,” County Fire Chief Kirk Hughes, Director of Protective Services for the CVR said.

Blackfoot Fire Chief Brad Parkinson (L) and Rescue Tools Canada sales rep Kevin Patterson (R), in front of the new Genesis tools. Submitted Image

Currently, the Blackfoot Corridor is a joint response district between Blackfoot Fire and Lloyd Rescue Squad – who are a 3^rd party contract to the CVR, Chief Hughes added.

“Due to the increase in traffic using highway #16 and the large district covered by both Blackfoot and Lloyd Rescue, our Fire Master Plan identified this gap as an area of concern,” Chief Hughes told Lakeland Connect. “In order to address that, a set of extrication tools was purchased, which allows our Blackfoot Fire station to respond to incidents as a primary unit or to back-up other stations, such as Kitscoty or Paradise Valley.”

 Chief Hughes says additionally, Blackfoot Fire finds itself in one of our heaviest industrial development zones, and the risk of industrial accidents in that zone are high.

“Having the ability to deploy these specialized rescue devices in spaces with limited room, allows us to deliver a level of service that previously relied on hand tools and ingenuity of the rescuer,” Chief Hughes said. “This is just another tool in our tool box for rescue work.”

Arthur@lakelandconnect.thedev.ca