(Poulsbo, Kitsap County) The 9-1-1 call came in for a 22 year old male who fell 20-feet from a ladder into one of the many hollow concrete vault-type pontoons that support the Hood Canal Bridge. The unconscious man was rapidly extricated by Technical Rescue Teams and transferred by boat to a waiting ambulance. Thankfully this was only a drill for members of local Fire & EMS agencies preparing for possible scenarios during the bridge closure.
With over 300 employees working with heavy equipment and concrete during the renovation, officials are working to ensure a timely and efficient response in the event of a real medical emergency. Poulsbo Fire Department, Bainbridge Island Fire Department, Port Ludlow Fire and Rescue and Navy Region Northwest performed technical rescue, while coordinating communications with construction supervisors and boat ferry operators. Plans are in place to transport patients to the most appropriate facility via ambulance or by Airlift NW to a trauma center.
Yesterday’s events focused on emergency technical rescue events occurring on the bridge. A second rescue drill was conducted this morning with emergency medical services and the ferry shuttle. Passengers en route to the Lofall dock will receive emergency medical treatment from Poulsbo Fire Department paramedics.
