The Sykesville fire department received a call for a vehicle collision with rescue around 9:38 p.m. in the 6700 block of Macbeth Way in Eldersburg, Maryland. Medic 128 arrived on the scene shortly and reported a working rescue after finding a patient who was heavily trapped in one of the vehicles. Medic 128 advised that the first vehicle was on its side and the second vehicle had the trapped patient and their vehicle was on top of the first vehicle. Rescue Squad 12 arrived and assumed control of the scene. The accident proved to be challenging and extremely dangerous due to the instability of both vehicles along with the smell of gasoline and oil that was permeating throughout the air.

Rescue Squad 12’s crew worked quickly to stabilize both of the vehicles. This stabilization effort was crucial in order to safely remove and treat the trapped patient. Engine 124 arrived soon after the stabilization efforts had started and they manned hose lines to protect the patient and rescue responders in case of any sudden fire from the spilled fuel and oil. Multiple stabilization jacks were placed around the two vehicles and anchoring chains were also used to secure both vehicles. The stabilization is critical as no vehicle is allowed to be moved to keep the patient from further harm and the rescuers safe. Vehicle collisions and rescues of this type are few, but they require the rescuers to have the experience and focus to handle difficult rescues. This rescue went smoothly due to the ongoing and frequent technical training that Sykesville’s crews participate in.

Medic 128 requested the Maryland State Police medivac helicopter for patient transport. Winfield Engine 142 was also dispatched to assist with the landing site. The patient was safely extricated from the vehicle and transported to the landing site. Trooper 3 from the Maryland State Police was able to transport the patient to the hospital.

Sykesville’s crews stayed at the scene to wait for the tow trucks as the placement of the vehicles had a risk for fire due to sparks caused by the tow trucks separating the two vehicles. The scene was finally cleared around two hours after the onset of the call.