More than 65 first responders from Lancaster, PA, and surrounding areas gathered Oct. 5 for an intensive hands-on training session focused on modern vehicle extrication techniques.
Organized by Faulkner Collision Center of Lancaster and supported by the National Auto Body Council (NABC) First Responder Emergency Education (F.R.E.E.) program, the event aimed to equip responders with the skills needed to rescue victims from today’s advanced vehicles, which often pose unique challenges during emergency situations.
The training, hosted at Faulkner Collision Center, featured live demonstrations and classroom education on dealing with vehicles equipped with high-strength steel, advanced restraint systems, numerous airbags and alternative fuel engines. These innovations, while improving vehicle safety, also require specialized tools and knowledge for safe extrication.
“Today’s vehicles are more complex than ever, and first responders must be prepared for anything, especially with the increasing presence of electric and hybrid engines,” said April Lausch, manager of Faulkner Collision Center.
The event gave participants the opportunity to practice extrication techniques on vehicles donated by Allstate, Chubb, GEICO and Farmers, with equipment provided by HURST Jaws of Life.
“Some responders have attended every session we’ve hosted to date, and they always appreciate the opportunity to hone their skills on different types of vehicles," Lausch said.
A key component of the day was the focus on electric and hybrid vehicles, which present new safety risks due to their electrical systems and high-voltage components. One of the donated vehicles was a Tesla, allowing responders to familiarize themselves with its design and potential hazards.
“The Tesla was an older model, with fewer electric elements, but the hands-on experience was still invaluable,” Lausch added.
The NABC F.R.E.E. program, which has trained more than 5,500 first responders since its inception, aims to ensure that emergency teams are well-equipped to handle the complexities of modern vehicle rescues. The program emphasizes the importance of ongoing education for first responders as vehicle technology continues to evolve.
“Faulkner Collision Center is proud to offer local first responders the opportunity to attend an event that provides critical, up-to-date information they can use when helping Lancaster drivers in their time of need,” Lausch concluded.
