05/20/2026
Last night our firefighters did some AutoX or Auto extraction training. This is just a glimpse at some of the tools, skills and techniques that we use when extracting patients from vehicles involved in a serious collision.
Why is Vehicle Extrication Training important?
🔥Saving Lives
Training allows first responders to quickly and safely remove individuals and
Prevents delays that could be life threatening.
🔥Minimizing Injuries
Improper removal can worsen injuries like spinal, head, or internal injuries.
Our training emphasizes stabilizing the patient and vehicle before moving anyone.
🔥Efficiency
Every second counts on the highway.
Trained personnel can assess the situation, use proper tools, create and execute a rescue plan efficiently.
🔥Understanding Hazards
Modern vehicles have increased hazards due to the incorporation of a larger quantity of combustible materials. Some hazards can include multiple airbags, electrical systems, and hybrid/electric components.
Training ensures responders can navigate these hazards safely.
🔥Team Coordination
Extrication is a team effort often involving firefighters, EMS, and even police.
Training emphasizes communication and role assignment to ensure smooth, safe rescues.
🚨What to Expect if You Ever Need to Be Extricated🚨
🚒 Scene Assessment
First responders evaluate vehicle stability, traffic hazards, fuel leaks, and your condition. This allows us to make a safe and effective plan for your extraction. **Note it is important to try and remember at this stage not to move your head or neck as there may be internal injuries you are not aware of that could be worsened.**
🚒 Patient Stabilization
May include a cervical collar and securing your body to a backboard.
This helps to prevent further injuring you during your removal.
🚒 Vehicle Stabilization
Vehicle may be stabilized with wooden blocks, wedges, or struts to prevent movement. Unexpected movement of the vehicle can cause injuries to rescue personnel or further your injuries.
🚒 Controlled Access
Emergency personnel will carefully open doors, remove windows, or cut parts of the vehicle.
Our goal is creating the safest path without causing bodily harm.
🚒 Extraction
Loud hydraulic tools, glass or metal cutting, and some pressure may be felt.
Rescuers will communicate the process throughout to reduce fear and ensure you remain safe.
🚒 Transfer to EMS
Once removed from your vehicle, you will be placed on a stretcher and evaluated by the paramedics on scene.
They will check for hidden injuries and transport you to a hospital if necessary.
