Victim’s ’emotional connection’ with rescuers

A realistic demonstration of how trapped people are cut from a crashed car was held outside the iconic York Minister in York city centre.

North Yorkshire Fire and Rescue and United Kingdom Rescue Organisation (UKRO), in partnership with the City of York road safety team, provided the demonstration as part of a safety information day for local residents.

The event followed on from the North Yorkshire Fire and Rescue UKRO team’s success at the recent UK Road Accident Rescue Challenge, where they were named ‘best overall team’ and ‘best technical team’ in the extraction challenge.

RSO Trish Hirst, who played one of the victims, said: “I’ve seen the team do this demonstration before, but it is the first time I have been cut out and that gives you a really different perspective on the important role these people play.

“From the moment they arrive at the crash, one of the team starts talking to you, through the glass and stays with you at all times. Even when you are surrounded by noise and scary gear – you really feel in safe hands.

“I never realised there would be such an emotional connection with the rescuers but there really is – the commitment of these people really shines through. Even though this was just a demonstration I was really moved by the experience.”

For more information contact Kathryn Mackay on 01904551387.