City of Cambridge, MA

09/16/2024 | Press release | Distributed by Public on 09/16/2024 07:12

Technical Rescue Skills Exercise was held at Fenway Park on September 12th

On Thursday, September 12, 2024, all the MATRS (MA Association of Technical Rescue Specialists) regional teams worked together in a major exercise at Fenway Park.

Technical Rescue disciplines utilized included:

  • Rescue from a stalled elevator of simulated trapped victims via the roof hatch in a blind elevator shaft
  • Rescue of a simulated trapped window-washer or injured person from upper level press box and broadcast enclosures

and

  • Rope rescue of people from the light towers and the "green monster" outfield wall

The technical rescue teams rotated throught the various skills stations throughout the day.

Even though these firefighters make it look easy, these skills are all very challenging and intense. All skills require specialized tools and equipment. Tech Rescue Specialist practice frequently in order to to maintain proficiency, especially under life-threatening situations. This was a great opportunity for teams from across the state of Massachusetts to work together, exchange information, and review rescue tactics, strategy, and safety.

Cambridge Fire is a member of the Boston UASI (Urban Area Security Initiative) Technical Rescue Team along with Boston Fire, Chelsea Fire, Revere Fire, and Somerville Fire who worked seamlessly as a team during this all-day exercise at Fenway Park.

Photos attached show some of the real-world, rescue skills utililized during the exercise.