Vernon first responders ventilated and cut the tube slide at Northeast Elementary to free a wedged 40-year-old, with EMS providing oxygen in the heat

Journal Inquirer

VERNON, Conn. — Local firefighters using standard training usually reserved for fighting fires in interior spaces were presented with an unusual challenge Saturday when they were called to a local playground.

A 40-year-old man who became wedged in a tube slide was successfully extricated using confined space rescue skills, according to the Vernon Fire Department.

The call at 4:30 p.m. was to the Northeast Elementary School on East Street. Upon arrival, firefighters found a man “wedged feet and head,” and stuck in the middle portion of the slide.

Additional apparatus and manpower were requested, including a rescue and ladder truck. EMS personnel provided oxygen to the patient who was in “extreme discomfort” in what was a hot afternoon. The heat, according to fire officials, was of concern.

Ventilation was established to help cool the space as a section of the slide was removed to reach the patient.

The man was freed within 30 minutes and evaluated on scene by EMS. He refused further treatment, officials said.

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