Eureka Volunteer Firefighters Drill on Elevated Aerial Stokes Basket Rescue in York County

Stewartstown, PA - Volunteer firefighters from the Eureka Volunteer Fire Department (Station 54) conducted targeted technical rope rescue training on Sunday evening, focusing on packaging and lowering downed personnel using aerial apparatus in Stewartstown, York County.

Seven department members participated in the practical drill session held during the evening of Sunday, November 1, 2026 (with department debriefs published Monday, November 2), operating at the company station to sharpen high-angle and elevated rescue proficiencies.

The scenario simulated a high-risk operational emergency requiring the rapid removal of an incapacitated firefighter from an elevated structural position. Members practiced packaging and securing a simulated patient into a rigid Stokes basket using standard harness and web-lashing systems.

Responders then integrated rigging systems with the department's aerial ladder truck, deploying mechanical lowering lines to safely guide the litter basket from height down to ground-level awaiting crews.

Department leadership highlighted that routine mechanical rigging drills and Stokes basket operations ensure personnel maintain rapid, disciplined proficiency during complex technical rescues and potential Mayday firefighter recovery scenarios.