Canine supervisor helps passenger after tumble down escalator

Tuesday, September 24, 2024

When a traveler tumbled down an escalator at Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport, Canine Supervisor Joseph Havens ran to help the passenger in need and get the situation under control.

Havens was observing operations when the incident occurred.

"I was standing near the security checkpoint when I heard what sounded like thunder, followed by the sound of someone screaming," said Havens. "When I looked toward the escalator, I saw the sound was that of a woman tumbling end over end down the entire length all the way to the bottom of the northernmost set of escalator steps, which were still moving."

Havens sprang into action, running toward the fallen passenger as quickly as he could, carrying her off the escalator and out of harm's way.

"The situation was dire as a young woman lay motionless at the base of the moving escalator, and her distressed mother was frantic," said Acquisition Outreach Officer Scott Haller, who witnessed the incident while volunteering for canine decoy operations.

The woman seemed to be fine at first, but once the shock of the event and adrenaline wore off, the pain began to set in.

The escalator at Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport where a passenger fell (TSA photo).

Havens grabbed a nearby wheelchair for the passenger and did a quick assessment of her wounds. He called dispatch for the medics, while an airline worker brought the woman an ice pack.

"The mother was visibly and understandably shaken, worried and upset that her teenage daughter had just taken such a horrific fall after she lost her balance at the top of the escalator," Havens said.

A canine handler directed the medics on site to the location of the passenger, who was then given an examination. Havens described the incident to emergency responders, as the traveler was having difficulties communicating.

After the medics were done and the family went through screening, Havens met with them to see how they were doing. The woman was apparently okay.

Haller was in the standby area assisting canine teams with training and testing when the woman fell. He said Havens demonstrated remarkable composure and leadership during the crisis by not only promptly intervening, but also providing continuous support to the family until emergency medical services arrived.

"Joseph's actions exemplify the core values of the TSA, highlighting the exceptional dedication and professionalism of its staff," Haller said. "His vigilance and compassion are reflective of the high standards upheld by TSA employees and serve as a testament to their unwavering commitment to ensuring the safety and well-being of the traveling public."

By Mike Frandsen, Strategic Communications & Public Affairs