The Scary Side of Extrication

It’s October, which means it’s time for Halloween. We all equate Halloween with the “scare factor,” but you don’t have to go on too many extrication runs to know that the extrication scene can be a pretty scary place, too. With that in mind, I thought I would take a “Twilight Zone” (or maybe I should call it “Twisted Zone”) approach to this month’s Make the Cut extrication column, showing you both the scary way to address extrication issues and tactics, as well as the smart way to handle the challenges you’ll face.

The reason I wanted to talk about the scary aspects of extrication is because some people just don’t get it. They believe they’re entitled, good enough without continuous training, or simply above reproach. I was talking to one of my firefighters yesterday about training, passion and differing views of commitment. It was an outstanding conversation that really got both of us thinking about priorities. For me, it comes down to one question: Who do you want extricating your wife and daughter after they rolled the car on black ice? Personally, I want the person who takes the most effective approach–not the scary approach–to performing extrication tactics.

Now, let’s look at both the scary and smart approaches to extrication work.

Scary: When you’re handling the hydraulic tools, just slam it in there. There’s no need to create space. Remember, your tools can cut anything.
Smart: Perfect your craft. Have an established, measurable process for tool procurement.  Also, have a consistent maintenance program that includes thorough weekly checks and a yearly checkup by a manufacturer representative.  A tool not properly maintained can go wrong in a hurry. Loose cutter blades or tweaked spreader arms can cause serious harm to your personnel or patients.

Scary: I’m an expert in vehicle extrication, and I know everything there is to know. I don’t need to listen to anyone, because I’m the best at what I do.
Smart: Never declare that you’re an expert. The day you stop learning is the day you should retire.

Scary: Why do we need to carry firewood on the engine? And why do we need all these rules for stabilization? We’re just playing with Lincoln Logs. If Mrs. Smith whines about getting tossed around, well, what does she know? I’m the professional here.
Smart: Effective stabilization provides a great foundation from which to work. It helps minimize vehicle shift, reducing the risk of injuring your patients and first responders.

Scary: Some people advocate calling a wrecker to help out at the scene, but I don’t want them telling me what to do.
Smart: Outside resources can be a huge help on the scene. Coordinate and train with outside resources ahead of time. Forecast the need for them early for efficient operations.

Scary: My BC tried to talk to me about how I sucked down two bottles at that car fire last week. He thought I should exercise more. But I know what I can handle. When it’s time to perform, I can step up.
Smart: A consistent exercise program can help reduce stress at extrication incidents. It also can give you a great foundation so you don’t have to “Red Line” it all the time. A cut job should not be a stressful event; if you’re prepared.  

Scary: If I miss my extrication training due to being sick, there’s no need to make up the drill.
Smart: If you miss a drill for whatever reason, be sure you put in the time to make it up.  Always remember, the next generation is looking at you to set the example.

Scary: If you want to learn more, don’t train; just watch videos. They’re just as good and you don’t get sweaty. Those hydraulic tools are heavy, and if I use them, I may have to clean them. I did it once so I’m good to go. Now that I think about it, I wonder if there’s an app for that. Besides, that new training officer makes me button my bunker pants and zip up my bunker coat when we drill. It pinches my belly and I can’t bend over.
Smart: Conduct effective training sessions with objectives that improve your performance and your department. Real-world scenarios are the best type of training you can find. Training videos and even apps are great supplemental training tools, but you still have to get out there and get dirty–and it doesn’t hurt if you’re in good enough shape to actually train.

Scary: Our training officer wants us to follow all that NIMS crap. I’ve been doing this for 25 years, and I’ve never killed anyone.
Smart: Personnel versed in NIMS can set objectives, give intent and communicate expectations, allowing us to be on the same page, making our operation more effective. Does it slow us down?  No. If trained properly, it allows us to have a coordinated attack with audacity, if you so choose.

Scary: Yesterday, the rookie wanted me to show him how to do a thorough rig check. He says he wants to ensure that everything operates as it should. Spending an hour checking my rig is overkill. I trust B-shift; they said the rig is “good to go.”
Smart: Be prepared. Don’t rely on others for your operational effectiveness because you’re lazy. Do your own rig checks; it’s your job.

Scary: I got notice that I need to get my Firefighter I and Firefighter II certifications. I don’t need someone from the state telling me what to do. What do they know?
Smart: Believe it or not, you don’t know it all. Seek out as much knowledge as you can, and learn from others’ experiences. Measurable objectives improve accountability.

Scary: Having those certifications is overrated. We promote around here by seniority and a vote. I have 25 years on the job, and I’ll just take the boys out for a beer to lock that up.
Smart: Competency should win over seniority every time.

Scary: Why do we need to learn about hybrids? They’re a flash in the pan.
Smart: Folks, the horse and wagon aren’t coming back. Embrace new technology. Learn about hybrid technology and alternative fuels in the different vehicles. Hell, even NASCAR is going to fuel-injection.

Scary: When responding to an accident, wait until you get there to call for additional resources. It’s probably nothing anyway, especially since dispatch is usually wrong. Plus, I don’t ever want to call our neighboring department’s engine company.
Smart: Be proactive about your resources, and develop relationships with agencies around you. They are there to help you!

Scary: I don’t need to plan or forecast. I’m as nimble as a cat, and I can remember everything.
Smart: No one can be prepared for everything, and certainly no one can know exactly how they’ll react when things go bad. Develop a plan and seek input from your team. It will only help you when challenges strike.

Scary: I’m over writing about this. Why should I do “extra credit” work when the rest of my engine company is in the recliner at 1600 HRS, 10 toes up? Why should I share my knowledge with you? Figure it out on your own.
Smart: Impart whatever knowledge you can on others. You are a team and should freely share your information and resources. (Note: I’d like to thank my dad for his work ethic and compassion. It’s because of him that I am so willing to share my extrication knowledge with you.)

In Closing
I was at a meeting last month with other members of the department. We were developing MVC incident action plans. During our discussion, one of our lieutenants described some of the people who live in the “scary” world that I described above, saying that they “fake it to make it.” It’s your choice. Do you want to live in the scary extrication world or the smart extrication world?