Our Rescue responded to a single vehicle MVA into a tree with multiple entrapments. While the Rescue is doing walk around car to check for hazards and injuries a FF stands on driver’s side of car and a loose tree branch swings and hits him in the back, driving him into the car. The 10 inch thick branch is removed by rescue and engine company FF’s and the FF was treated and removed to ER by EMS. Five hours later he is still being tested in the hospital for back, neck, and shoulder injuries. His turnout gear cushioned some of the blow and helmet save his head.

Lessons Learned: Obviously turnout gear is a must on all calls and we need to widen our safety check prior to beginning rescue evolutions.