Trench Rescue Training
6/25/2026
During the week of June 22nd, the Cambridge Fire Tech Rescue Companies (including Engine 1, Ladder 1, Rescue, 1, Squad 2, Squad 4, and Special Ops & Safety) participated in a review of Trench Rescue Skills.
With the ongoing construction and underground utility work across the entire city, Trench Rescue capability is an important skill for today's fire companies.
The all-day review started with a morning classroom review and then moved outside for hands-on practical work. Skills included size up, placement and securing of sheeting and shoring, stability via use of pneumatic (air) struts, orderly division and management of rope work, which ensured a safe area for the patient, as well as a safe work area for the rescuers. Patient care via Firefighter Medics and EMTs and stabilization and extrication were completed in real time. Note that a training mannequin was utilized as the patient.
As always, the Incident Command System was utilized and members were divided by work task & skills to effect the rescue safely & timely. Following the hands-on session, a "hot wash" critique and discussion was held re lessons reinforced.
Training was held at the Boston Fire - Moon Island Training Facility. All Tech Rescue Companies, all groups, are rotating through this mentally & physically intense class.
Photos are from Tuesday, June 23rd, with group 2 on duty. There was a steady, light rain throughout the day.
