SFD Media Release - For more information on this release please call (509) 625-7002

Technical Rescue (Follow-up)

Incident #: 2013014314
Date of Incident: 04/05/2013
Issuing Officer: AC Schaeffer

Narrative:
At 9:24 AM on Friday, April 5, 2013, the Spokane Fire Department responded to a "Technical Rescue" at 901 East Sinto. A routine response was dispatched initially and even more resources were called to the scene when it was confirmed that one male employee was injured 12-15 feet below the surface and in need of help. The incident would require a very technical rescue to be performed by the SFD’s Technical Rescue Team. Once all technical aspects of this emergency operation were addressed and assembled by the nearly 18 personnel on-scene, two Firefighter/Paramedics descended into the area and completely immobilized the victim preparing him for the mechanical accent. The 29 year-old, male employee was found in and out of conscious at the bottom of the foundation with a head injury. He had apparently lost his balance while working above the foundation, resulting in the fall. A male co-worker, his father, was not injured as he attempted to assist in his son’s misfortune. Once rescued, the patient was treated and then transported to a local hospital for definitive care.

While the entire incident took much longer, the "Technical Rescue" was accomplished in just over one hour. There were no other injuries reported.

Cause:
The accident is under investigation by Washington State Department of Labor and Industries.

Damage:
The patient has been released from Sacred Heart Hospital and is resting at home. While his injuries were serious, his family is optimistic that he will return to work and resume his routine.

# Firefighters Responding: 18

End Of Release
For more information on this release please call (509) 625-7002