The fire services team at EM’s Paducah Site recently conducted vehicle extrication training courses at the site.

The goal of the advanced courses is to train fire responders in the codes and standards of the National Fire Protection Association.

The training ensures that emergency response personnel have a thorough knowledge and understanding of techniques and hazards associated with auto extrication, including sizing up the accident scene; mitigating hazard; establishing safety zones; and reinforcing use and establishment of the incident command system, a standardized approach to emergency response.

“While our goal is always to prevent accidents before they happen at the Paducah Site, we also need to be prepared to act with efficiency and precision if an event were to occur. Since we have mutual aid agreements, this training will also benefit our community,” said Jennifer Woodard, the Paducah site lead for EM’s Portsmouth/Paducah Project Office.

 A key feature of the vehicle extrication education is a simulation of a vehicle accident rescue, in which fire responders use hydraulic jacks and the Jaws of Life, a hydraulic apparatus used to pry apart the wreckage of crashed vehicles to free people trapped inside.

After completing training, firefighters are able to demonstrate the ability to stabilize the vehicle; take off the roof, doors, and glass from the vehicle; and remove the occupants.

The training was conducted by EM’s deactivation and remediation contractor, Four Rivers Nuclear Partnership.