An "Uplifting" Experience!
 
By Assistant Chief Chris Plumley
March 29, 2012
 

This weeks training rose our skills to new heights. Firefighters utilized equipment such as cribbing and air bags to raise a table high enough to get the legs in position. The trick is NOT to spill even a drop of water out of the cup on top. Using teamwork and clear communication, the crew was able to accomplish their task.

Air Bags are designed to lift heavy objects out of the way of the rescue crews so they may access and remove patients who are trapped underneath. These air bags are rated up to 50,600 lbs! It is not uncommon for fire companies such as Kennett to carry these very beneficial tools on their trucks.
 
The cribbing Kennett uses. Many companies use cribbing made out of wood. Each has their own advantages and disadvantages! There are definitely more than one ways to do the job.
The cribbing Kennett uses. Many companies use cribbing made out of wood. Each has their own advantages and disadvantages! There are definitely more than one ways to do the job.
Table began flat on the floor, crews use the airbags to slowly lift the table, using the cribbing underneath so the table does not fall, tilt, or become unstable. This operation simulates lifting a car or other large vehicle up. Crews must be very careful not to further harm a victim.
Table began flat on the floor, crews use the airbags to slowly lift the table, using the cribbing underneath so the table does not fall, tilt, or become unstable. This operation simulates lifting a car or other large vehicle up. Crews must be very careful not to further harm a victim.
 
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John Lozada featured here as our air bag operator. Using the manifold to exchange air into the airbag from a standard breathing apparatus bottle, he communicates with the crew.
John Lozada featured here as our air bag operator. Using the manifold to exchange air into the airbag from a standard breathing apparatus bottle, he communicates with the crew.
 
Observed by Captain Mark Plumley, Lt. Billy Brown, and firefighters Tyler Bell, Brian Broomell, John Depippo, Sean Carter, John Lozada, and Lieutenant Eddie Roberts keep up the good work.
Observed by Captain Mark Plumley, Lt. Billy Brown, and firefighters Tyler Bell, Brian Broomell, John Depippo, Sean Carter, John Lozada, and Lieutenant Eddie Roberts keep up the good work.
*Remember* We crib as we go to minimize any tilting or shifting of the table.
*Remember* We crib as we go to minimize any tilting or shifting of the table.
 
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Lt. Eddie Roberts pulling the legs out.
Lt. Eddie Roberts pulling the legs out.
 
Crew has surpassed their goal without spilling 1 drop of water out of the cup!
Crew has surpassed their goal without spilling 1 drop of water out of the cup!