Memorable Incidents in First Responder Roles: A Paramedic's Account

Introduction

As a first responder, the job brings with it a diverse range of experiences, some of which stand out as particularly memorable. In my ten years as a paramedic, I have responded to numerous emergencies, but a few incidents still evoke vivid memories.

Memorable Plane Crash Incident

During my career as a paramedic, I was dispatched to a small plane crash that occurred less than a mile from a rural airfield surrounded by thick forest. With a partner and the fire department, we searched for a fire or at least some smoke, but found nothing. Eventually, we reached the crash site deep in the woods, accompanied by another ambulance.

The plane was an experimental biplane, kit-built, and the pilot, my patient, was ejected from the wreckage. His daughter was trapped in the wreckage, and freeing her was a challenging process that required extensive extrication using tools that generated sparks. Despite his altered state due to shock and concussion, the pilot was still alert enough to point out that the plane's engine was "cherry hot" and that there was aviation fuel everywhere.

We loaded him into the ambulance and assured him repeatedly that we were aware of the fire risk and that his daughter was in great hands. Helicopters were sent for both the pilot and his daughter. His daughter was eventually extricated, and both helicopters left at the same time. The pilot's helicopter even performed a taxi and low hover to the runway before taking off, adhering to safety protocols despite his bad day.

Both the pilot and his daughter went on to fly again, testament to the resilience of the human spirit.

Automobile Accidents and Emergency Management

Another memorable incident occurred during a rush-hour commute on a foggy autumn morning. There had been a multiple-vehicle accident on the motorway, involving 13 vehicles, including 3 articulated lorries and semitrailers. One of the lorries was on fire, and numerous people were trapped, including 3 fatalities. The smoke from the fire mixed with the fog, creating terrible visibility. There was also a housing estate close by, and we couldn't rule out hazardous chemicals in the lorries.

Upon arriving, I was tasked with communicating with the incident commander. I called the Force Control Room, asked if an incident commander was on scene, and, impetuously, volunteered to attend. I wasn't prepared for the magnitude of the situation. With 13 vehicles, including a burning lorry and multiple trapped individuals, the scene was chaotic.

Just as I cursed my poor judgment, the Chief Fire Officer appeared through the smoke with a grin. This man, whom I both liked and admired, made me feel small. His words, "Morning Tony. Fing ambulance want to call this a major incident. Bollocks to that," were both reassuring and humorous. That day, I learned the value of understatement and the importance of situational awareness.

Personal and Community Service Incidents

Another memorable incident occurred during my retirement. A neighbor knocked on my door on a Sunday afternoon with a request that I pick up his grandson and family, who had broken down on the way to Margate. His wife, having had two glasses of wine, was unable to drive. It was a simple task, but fate had other plans.

On our way, we encountered a police chase involving a target vehicle and a motorcyclist. The motorcyclist was injured, and no one was looking after him. I got out to help and found that his right foot had been traumatically amputated at the ankle. As the first aid manual suggests, torniques are not recommended, but the bleeding was so severe that I had no choice. Fortunately, a member of the public, who lost his belt, performed the procedure.

The injured man, a colleague, survived without his foot, thanks to the tornique, until the ambulance arrived. This experience highlighted the importance of flexible thinking and readiness to take actions under extreme conditions.

Conclusion

These incidents, among others, have left a lasting impression on me, each offering unique insights into emergency response and human resilience. As a first responder, every call presents a new challenge, and these stories remind us of the dedication and bravery required to help others in their hour of need.