Within minutes, Assistant Chief S. Neuendorf (21-2) arrived on scene and confirmed one individual with both feet entrapped in an industrial-grade wood chipper. Rescue-Engine 21-1502 and Aerial Ladder 21-75 responded promptly and arrived on scene. Members located the victim in the care of South Orangetown Ambulance EMTs and Rockland County Paramedic Services (Medic 21).

Upon determining that the incident would require a prolonged extrication, the Rockland County Technical Rescue Team was requested, along with Rockland County Fire Coordinators 44-1 and 44-8.

Special recognition is extended to the members of the Orangetown Highway Department and Sewer Department. Their employees operated a plasma cutter on scene, skillfully cutting through the commercial-grade steel of the machine. This critical action allowed rescuers to create an opening and successfully free the victim.

Once extricated, the victim was transferred to EMS for transport to Westchester Medical Trauma Center. The scene was then turned over to the Rockland County Sheriff’s BCI, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), and the Orangetown Police Department.

Additional thanks go to the Sparkill Fire Department for establishing a landing zone in their district, despite a Medivac being unable to respond due to inclement weather. Appreciation is also extended to the Orangeburg Fire Department for covering the Tappan Fire District during this incident.

This rescue demonstrated outstanding interagency cooperation, professionalism, and commitment to public safety.

@south_orangetown_ems @rockland_paramedic_services @otownpoliceofficial @rocklandcountysheriffsoffice @sparkillpalisadesfire @orangeburgfire11 @rocklandcountygov