Replies to This Discussion

Permalink Reply by Mike "Lapo" Lapotasky on March 1, 2011 at 11:20am

Admittedly, I am not anywhere near old man status in terms of the profession, but I agree with you 100% about roof flaps. It is only useful for underrides. If you are removing a victim and need to do a roof flap, C-spine and lower extremity injuries being involved becomes a paramount concern. Why leave the roof on partially when, if removed (in roughly the same amount of time), the responders can slide the patient straight up directly onto the backboard and down onto the trunk deck where cravats or spider straps can secure the patient before the final transition to the cot.

This alleviates any need or temptation to twist or over-manipulate the torso of the patient upon final extrication steps.

Permalink Reply by Mike "Lapo" Lapotasky on March 1, 2011 at 11:21am

Great comment. Could not agree more...

Permalink Reply by Russ Marks on March 7, 2011 at 12:08am

We are looking at getting a Milukee circular saw with a metal cuuting blade, I have seen it using in training it is amazing. Quick easy to use, light weight and makes quick work of the new steels. Every tool has a purpose, Keep a big tool box and use the right one for the job.

Permalink Reply by Arthur S Collatz on March 7, 2011 at 11:53am

Milwaukee metal cutting skill saw is the cats meow...... faster than a speeding bullet. But like anything, know your job and know your tools, everything has its place. Practice practice practice...

The scene of an emergency is not the place to learn or practice a new skill. Be prepared for the unexpected before the battle begins.

Permalink Reply by Mike "Lapo" Lapotasky on March 8, 2011 at 9:48am

Someone already said this but I agreed with them so I will repeat their sentiments. I am totally with you in supporting alternative means, especially a proper Sawzall. However, if you run with four preconnected tools like my company there is no set up time. The generator is started while enroute and we simply hop off with one cutting crew and one cribbing/mitigation crew. Let the cutting begin. (after proper precautions of course)

I am hugely in favor of all of these tools being used more often however.

Permalink Reply by Mike "Lapo" Lapotasky on March 8, 2011 at 9:50am

What tool do you refer to as a speed brace? I may know it by another name or just might have no familiarity with it.

Permalink Reply by Russ Marks on March 8, 2011 at 11:00pm

And that is our biggest issue, secureing cars to practice on. We have one local junk yard who helps us out at least once a year, but he is limmited to what is in the yard. Mostly pre 1990 era cars, seldom newer. So we can practice the techingue, but it is not the same as on the highway with the new stuff.

Permalink Reply by Marty D. Ross on March 13, 2011 at 3:22pm

A few years ago my rescue partner and I found out what you now know, while at fire school we came upon a three car crash we did an extrication with a buck knife, kelly sissors and a hatchet. oh ya some chewing gum to stop a gas leak. Rather old school but it worked.

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