Fire Department

Engine Co. 4 and Medic 2 responded to West High School (30 Ash Street) for a report of someone who slipped on ice and fell while doing HVAC repair work on a rooftop. Firefighters and paramedics were led by school staff to the best access point, and they made their way to the roof, which was a flat surface one story high. Engine 4 determined the patient’s injuries would prevent him from being able to use a ladder to exit the roof, so they summoned Ladder Co. 1 to perform a basket rescue.

Paramedics placed the patient on a backboard as Ladder Co. 1 sent a stokes basket up to the roof. The patient was secured to the backboard, then further secured to the basket. Engine 4 and Medic 2 attached ropes to the basket with carabiners, and the patient was lifted, then lowered to the ground, with the help of Ladder 1. Ladder 1’s crew was able to resume patient care at ground level and brought the patient to the ambulance. The patient’s injuries are not considered life threatening.

Pictured: Engine 4 and Medic 2 secure the patient to a stokes basket as Ladder 1's crew prepares to assist with lowering the patient to the ground.