Surprise drill puts EHFD crews to the test

EHFD Drill In Action

Submitted by EMS Captain Melanie Kolek

Captain Nathan Botting and Engineer Spencer Laddy-Locks led the East Haddam Fire Department in its monthly drill for April, surprising personnel with an unannounced scenario.

Captain Botting organized a mock two-car motor vehicle accident involving fire and two trapped patients. Personnel were instructed to report to the fire house without prior knowledge of the drill details. The simulated call was dispatched via radio by Deputy Chief Ray Swol, with Car 15, Engine 4-15, Ladder 1-15, and Utility 1-15 responding to the East Haddam Public Works facility for an unknown emergency.

Lt. Michelle Walker assumed command upon arrival and reported a two-car motor vehicle accident with fire and two patients trapped. She assigned Engine 4-15 to fire suppression, Ladder 1-15 to vehicle extrication, and Captain Melanie Kolek to oversee EMS operations. Lt. Walker also initiated a mock request for Life Star, along with additional ambulances and EMS personnel.

All operations were successfully completed in approximately 26 minutes.