South Lynches Makes 3 Rescues from Transformer

By: James R Epps

South Lynches Fire Department responded to 360 East Plantation Rd. on January 20th for a report of 3 people trapped inside a large transformer.  South Lynches Fire Department responded with one engine, one rescue and Lake City Fire Department responded their tower ladder due to the fact that South Lynches was in Coward.  Florence County and Williamsburg County EMS also responded as well as two medical transport helicopters.

Batallion Chief of Training Chief Ryan Hurst assumed command and directed the rescue. He ordered a fan placed at a bottom opening and firefighters with SCBA to effect the removal. Lts. Danny Gaskins and David Cantey entered the transformer and successfully removed all three unconscious victims. Assisting with the removal on top was Safety Chief Jason Springs. Both EMS Paramedics treated the victims including starting IVs on top of the transformer. They were boarded and lowered to the ground using Lake City Tower Ladder 1114. Lt.Bobby Johnson coordinated this action.

Two Medical helicopters were requested and flew one victim to Richland in Columbia and one to MUSC in Charleston. Deputy Chief John Baker coordinated the LZ and communications with the helicopters using 800 radio Air to Ground channel. One victim was transported to McLeod Regional Hospital by ground ambulance.

 Over twenty SLFD firefighters along with LCFD and both county EMS's successfully rescued these victims. All victims are reported to be in good condition.

 

GREAT JOB BY ALL!

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