When a civilian working at a construction site was electrocuted, the first to respond were incarcerated firefighters from the Firehouse at California Correctional Center (CCC) and High Desert State Prison (HDSP).
Hitting a live wire, worker was electrocuted
The civilian was working just outside of Leavitt Lake on a construction site in mid-August. While carrying a metal pole, he accidentally hit a live electrical wire.
When the worker dropped to the ground, his coworkers called 911 and started CPR.
Arriving within minutes from the call were Fire Captain Young and his incarcerated firefighters. The firefighters acted quickly, using their training and experience with the Automated External Defibrillator (AED). Applying the machine to the young man’s chest, a shock was advised.
The Fire Captain and firefighters performed CPR until the air ambulance arrived. Prior to transport, the young man became alert and was able to speak.
The efforts made by Fire Captain Young and the firefighters did not go unnoticed. On Aug. 22, Sierra Emergency Medical Services Alliance (SEMSA) presented the Fire Captain and incarcerated firefighter Jack Myer Schenk IV with certificates of appreciation.
CCC/HDSP Firehouse, Antelope Conservation Camp help community
SEMSA staff expressed gratitude for CDCR’s rapid response to emergency calls in the community.
CCC’s Antelope Conservation Camp and the CCC/HDSP Firehouse are known for participating in Lassen County’s many activities.
Incarcerated firefighters and staff help:
- reducing fire hazards by cleaning debris off roads
- train dogs to be adopted instead of euthanized
- cut firewood for Lassen Senior Services
- respond to emergency calls
- provide medical aid, structure protection and wildland fire suppression
- respond to vehicle accidents and hazardous materials incidents
- flood control and storm cleanup
- high angle rescue incidents.
Often, such as the incident at the construction site, CDCR firefighters are the first on scene.
By Lt. Charlene Ruggiero, AA/PIO
California Correctional Center
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