Massachusetts FD Shares Elevator-Rescue Tips and Information

The Cambridge Fire Department in Cambridge, Massachusetts, recently shared information and tips about elevator rescues, observing that the department responds to approximately 200 elevator-rescue calls per year. Illustrated with several photos from a recent elevator rescue, the FD reminds the public to call 911 or use the emergency phone in the elevator if the unit becomes stalled, and the ladder company and rescue company will be dispatched. If a situation requires a more in-depth setup, such as extrication from a hoistway, the department’s division chief will be included. In the recent rescue, a firefighter entered the elevator car from the roof hatch, then outfitted the entrapped passenger with a safety harness to prevent a fall injury before extracting them. The elevator was then locked and tagged out pending arrival of a professional mechanic to evaluate and repair the unit.