Lakeside Assists CAL Fire with Multi-Patient Accident on Dehesa

Dehesa-

On Sunday, October 13th, 2013 at 8:13 a.m., the Lakeside Fire District received an automatic aid request to respond Rescue 3 to the area of Dehesa Rd and Matamo Pl. Initial reports indicated a high-speed head-on collision with multiple injured parties. Dispatched to the incident were three structural engines, two rescue companies, one ALS medic unit, and a CAL Fire duty chief.

Firefighter-Paramedics from multiple agencies work to stabilize a critically injured occupant. The red fluid on the ground is automatic transmission fluid.

With the arrival of Engine 23 (San Miguel Fire-Dehesa Station) they indicated a number of moderately (to severely) injured parties with an entrapment. The process of sorting, and treating, the victims began. Command was assumed by a CAL Fire chief officer where the task of organizing the incident was initiated.

Type of damage that results from a high speed head-on collision. Note the deployed airbag.

On the arrival of Engine 63 and Medic 63 (Sycuan Fire) extrication, and treatment of the victims, continued. The crew from Engine 63 was able to free the trapped victim with rescue tools carried on the engine.  The crew from Rescue 3 was assigned to assist with the treatment of a critically injured patient.

A request was made for Mercy Air to respond and transport the critically injured victim to the trauma center at Sharp Memorial Hospital.

The crew from Engine 19 (San Miguel-Bostonia) stands-by while Mercy Air lifts off for Sharp Memoial.

This incident is another example how automatic-aid works to not only manage fire incidents but any incident that requires a coordinated effort.

Units assisting San Miguel/CAL Fire were Sycuan Fire Department, Lakeside Fire District, and American Medical Response, and Mercy Air

Photos and Submission By: Fire Captain Mark Grow, Lakeside Fire District