POMPTON LAKES, NJ — Aug. 1 — Firefighters from the Pompton Lakes Volunteer Fire Department recently participated in a vehicle extrication training session, where they practiced removing a simulated person trapped inside a motor vehicle.

The training emphasized a key rescue skill used when vehicle occupants are unable to exit safely after a crash.

Firefighters practiced using hydraulic tools to cut, spread, and remove parts of the vehicle that may block access to a trapped person.

For emergency responders, consistent extrication training helps keep crews proficient with the tools, techniques, and teamwork needed during motor-vehicle crashes.

The process also required firefighters to assess stabilization, access, patient safety, and the most effective way to remove the vehicle around the victim.

The Pompton Lakes Volunteer Fire Department regularly responds to motor-vehicle accidents that require rescue extrication, making it one of their common emergency calls.

The department operates two engine units, a 105-foot aerial ladder truck, a heavy rescue vehicle, and a quick-response attack unit from its headquarters.

The department is a fully volunteer-run organization with about 65 firefighters who are on call 24/7 to respond to emergencies in Pompton Lakes.

They also assist neighboring communities through the county's mutual-aid system when needed.

The training helped prepare firefighters for situations they hope will never happen but must be ready to handle.

In some extrication cases, large parts of the vehicle may need to be removed to safely reach and transfer the victim to emergency medical services.

Firefighters also used the training to highlight the importance of accident prevention.

Drivers were reminded to wear seat belts, and children should be properly secured in child restraints appropriate for their age and size.

The exercise showed the value of maintaining rescue skills between emergencies.

For volunteer firefighters, practical training ensures that specialized equipment and procedures stay fresh and ready for use when needed in a real crash.