Hackettstown, N.J. — July 19 — Members of the Hackettstown Fire Department's Firefighter Assist and Search Team (FAST) finished a hands-on Rapid Intervention Crew training program on firefighter rescue operations. Crews learnt how to use a revolutionary pre-rigged 2:1 high-point anchor system to lift or lower a downed fireman during window rescues. Members also practiced a novel packaging method designed to improve removals with modern SCBA equipment.

Two other developments were the lowering of a rescue firefighter and the retrieval of a fallen firefighter via a floor opening. The training confirmed tried-and-true rescue techniques, equipment knowledge, and coordinated teamwork to improve firefighter safety and emergency readiness.