Replies to This Discussion

Permalink Reply by lutan1 on March 31, 2010 at 4:31am

Minimum of 2 rescue units would be responded. Also a heavy salvage truck or similar- not sure what loads are in that layout....

Stabilization of loads- first priority is the trailer and earthmover- there's a load of weight sitting there, though the mover itslef is not likely to move, the unstable trailer could possibly, but having said that, I reckon that fifth wheel is as strong as shit! Tim Cook taught me that these things are generally rated way above the load being carried- I just hope it's installed OK! ;-)

Second priority for stabilzation is the ute.

For both the trailer and the ute, I'd be going for a combination of cribbing and struts.

Hazard reduction:
- Batteries on both vehciles if they can be located/accessed

- Fuels and oils. I'd monitor but probably wouldn't lay foam or anything- it's just another headache to worry about. I'd also monitor the drains and gutters for any run off and LEL's, etc

- Though the tree is leaning away (or appears to be), I'd monitor it and check to see if it's load bearing. This could be a potential problem, but again, good stabilization and securing of the ute and trailer could eliminate any issues here. Hard to tell from just the one photo

- SRS systems- monitor these. Not sure about this model vehicle given that it's a yank tank and I know nothing about them. I'd stick with the 5-10-20 rule in the absence of any further info

- Utilities- I can't see any overhead powerlines. Are they buried in the ground along with water, gas, etc? A potential problems sitting here given that the tree has uprooted and could be exposing some problems

Extrication:
- Initial access would be through the door

- Consider full roof removal. Again, a bit hard to tell if it's possible from just the one photo

- Consider cutting steering wheel rim/spokes to give a bit more room

- Perhaps even go for a dash lift

Permalink Reply by Asst Chief Tim Cook on June 14, 2010 at 4:06pm

I MIGHT hook a winch cable to the rear of the trailer with a three part line and tension it. With the proper spotters with the patient."unwinding"the unit MAY get the back down nearer cribbable levels and it CERTAINLY will make it easier to work on the roof. With a three part line this can be done in a SLOW contrilled manner.Hyd tow truck supporting the rear during this phase would be helpful.

Permalink Reply by lutan1 on July 27, 2010 at 6:06pm

C'mon TC- you MIGHT? I don't think ya' know how to do it without using a winch!!!!

How goes the battle, brother from a different mother? ;-)

Permalink Reply by Asst Chief Tim Cook on July 29, 2010 at 3:51pm

Well this one is a beatch due to the compounding factors. You'll NEVER get it back on the ground but you CAN get it closer. About a 50K loss there Minus medical bills. Interesting job though,make you think for a minute. Yeah,i do like the Winch,been around longer than the HRT.We're OK,economy is lousey but we'll get thru it. Up side is runs are reduced because of it.