Local First Responders Train for AMTRAK Emergencies

[April 13, 2017]  LINCOLN - Recently 40 local first responders received training on Passenger Train Emergency Responses conducted by Gary Miller, AMTRAK safety specialist. Two four-hour sessions were held at and hosted by the Lincoln Rural Fire Department.

The course was designed for firefighters, law enforcement, coroners, EMTs and
9-1-1 dispatchers. Topics included in the training consisted of railroad right of way dangers, switching hazards, emergency phone numbers, train crew orientations, challenges of extrication, pneumatic and electrical hazards, environmental issues, pre-planning, and other train safety concerns at the scene of an accident or derailment.

Participating agencies included: Atlanta EMS, Atlanta Fire Department, Chestnut EMS, Elkhart FD, Lincoln FD, Lincoln Rural FD, Latham FD, Hartsburg FD, Middletown FD, Sherman FD, Coroner's Office and RBC Towing.

The class was conducted at no cost to local departments and participants were credited with four Continuing Education hours.

[Chris Buse, Chief
Lincoln Rural Fire Department]