SEDGWICK COUNTY —It was a busy day for Derby Fire, with Truck 81A performing two challenging rescues, according to a social media report from the fire department.
Just before dawn Tuesday, Truck 81A was dispatched to Spring Creek near Woodlawn and Chet Smith, where a man had sustained injuries after falling approximately 20 feet into the creek. Firefighters utilized the truck’s aerial ladder and high-angle rope rescue techniques to safely bring the man to a waiting ambulance.
Late Tuesday evening, during severe weather, Truck 81A responded to Nelson Dr. and Greenway, where a man was trapped inside a work van submerged in moving floodwaters. Once again, firefighters utilized the aerial ladder to safely rescue the man from a dangerous situation.
Earlier in the evening, Truck 81 also assisted with a reported garage fire in Sedgwick County near E 87th S & Webb Road.
"A reminder as severe weather continues: Never attempt to drive through flooded roadways! It takes just 12 inches of moving water to carry away many passenger vehicles, and 2 feet can sweep away larger vehicles, including trucks and SUVs. Water depth, road conditions, and current strength can be impossible to judge. Don’t take the chance. Turn Around, Don’t Drown."