Aug. 29-30, several Fire Rescue members participated in intensive Vehicle & Machinery Rescue (VMR) training. This advanced training, conducted in collaboration with our esteemed colleagues from Sebring Fire Department, Boca Raton Fire Rescue , Fort Myers Beach Fire District, and Bonita Springs Fire Control and Rescue District focused on the critical skills needed to safely extract individuals from various vehicular crash scenarios.
VMR training is a challenging process where firefighters are tasked with rescuing people from simulated crashes using totaled vehicles, which are deliberately overturned and damaged to mimic real-life conditions. Our teams worked tirelessly, utilizing their equipment and expertise to find the safest and most efficient methods of extraction.
We are grateful to Jasons Automotive And Towing for generously hosting the training and donating all the vehicles used. Their support was instrumental in the success of this exercise. A special thanks also goes to National Rescue Consultants for bringing their expertise to Highlands County, helping to elevate the skills of our first responders and ensuring they are better prepared to save lives.
We would like to recognize Lt. Hanks from Boca Raton for his outstanding leadership as the Incident Command Leader during the training. His ability to take overall control of the training was exemplary. Additionally, we commend Michael F. and Alva E. from Highlands County, and Kyle W. from Bonita Springs, for their exceptional leadership in guiding their respective squads throughout the exercises.
Lastly, we want to acknowledge the hard work and dedication of all the firefighters who participated in this training. Your commitment to honing your skills ensures that our community is safer every day. We are proud of the collective effort and teamwork displayed by everyone involved.
