Update: Tunnel Collapse
Maria Thi Mai
"Is it a cave in" asks the 911 operator. The project manager, Jim McDonald says, "uhhh, you could say that". This confirmation set into motion the mobiliation of several fire rescue vehicles, including an ambulance and a cave-in unit. Within 7 minutes of this call, the photographer who was pinned was lifted from the tunnel and transported to an ambulance. Within 10 minutes, the rescue workers have secured the site and recalled the cave-in.
So, after dissecting the 911 and fire dispatch transcripts and meeting with Fire Bureau, Emergency Services, and Environmental Services staffs we've learned a few things and will be amending some protocols. One thing is knowing that the words you use in calling in an emergency makes a big difference. Jim's confirmation of the accident as a 'cave-in' dispatches emergency rescue units that are different than an accident categorized as a 'confined space rescue'. The difference is in the information that is solicited from the 911 operator and the number and types of vehicles dispatched by the Fire Bureau.
What's important here is that staff be trained including regular drills on emergency call in procedures. We'll also be providing Sam with a radio to monitor calls and pager that alerts him of major incidents.
Sam can't be everywhere, but be assured that the safety of the City is his highest concern. We are told that he is the only commissioner who has been to the scene of a BES accident.
Posted by Maria Thi Mai on August 5, 2005
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