Hackettstown, N.J. — July 17 — A practical Rapid Intervention Crew training session on firefighter rescue operations was completed by members of the Firefighter Assist and Search Team (FAST) of the Hackettstown Fire Department. During window rescues, crews learned how to lift or lower a downed fireman using a novel pre-rigged 2:1 high-point anchor system.

Additionally, members practiced a new packaging technique intended to enhance removals using contemporary SCBA equipment. Lowering a rescue fireman and retrieving a downed firefighter through a floor aperture were two more evolutions. In order to increase firefighter safety and preparedness for emergency situations, the training reaffirmed tried-and-true rescue methods, equipment knowledge, and coordinated collaboration.