Inverted Pickup Truck Used for Hands-On Rescue Drill

Glen Gardner, N.J. — October 26, 2026 — Firefighters from Glen Gardner and Washington Borough took part in a joint vehicle rescue drill Monday evening, focusing on vehicle stabilization and rescue operations involving an overturned pickup truck.

The training covered the use of cribbing, Junkyard Dog stabilization tools and Paratech struts to secure vehicles before rescue operations begin. Firefighters then practiced rescue techniques using an inverted pickup truck.

Members of the Washington Borough Fire Department joined Glen Gardner Fire Company No. 1 for the exercise, giving firefighters from both departments an opportunity to work together and review equipment and procedures used during vehicle emergencies.

The drill was made possible through the support of Glen Gardner Quarry and Vulcan Materials Company, which donated vehicles for the training.

Vehicle stabilization is an important part of technical rescue operations. Securing a damaged or overturned vehicle helps reduce movement and provides firefighters with a safer working area while they access and remove occupants.