Vehicle Extrication Operations
PURPOSE: This 18‑hour basic course will provide the student with the knowledge and practical skills for safe extrication operations at a motor vehicle accident. Upon completion, the student will be prepared to function as a member of a supervised team at the emergency scene.
CONTENT: Lessons will include: safety; what to do on final approach to the scene; proper positioning of apparatus; staging of tools and personnel; inner and outer circle size‑up; anatomy of automotive bodies; proper terminology; how to function within an incident management system; various methods of lifting and stabilization of vehicles; use of hand tools, air lift bags, various saws and jacks; and hydraulic rescue tools (spreader, ram, and cutter). The student will be familiarized with victim “packaging” and removal.
The sessions emphasize flexibility in the use of tools and equipment, and teach more than one way to do a job whenever possible.
CLOTHING REQUIREMENTS: Full protective clothing that meets OSHA and PEOSHA requirements shall be required for the practical session.
PREREQUISITES: Firefighter I or NJ Dept. of Health EMT‑A.