Cemex allowed 30 firefighters to conduct simulated rescue operations using the height of two clinker silos at its Brooksville South Cement Plant in Florida.
During the exercise, firefighters from Hernando County, Pasco County and Tampa’s Fire Department rescued a mannequin that mimicked a patient that was injured nearly 200 feet above the ground. Firefighters climbed the silo to where the mannequin was located, loaded it into a rescue basket, then ziplined down a rope to an adjacent silo to complete the rescue. They also received additional practice on rappelling down the sides of buildings by climbing down the side of one of the silos.
Alberto Calleros, Cemex USA, plant manager, says: “This training strengthens the abilities of the firefighters as they serve our communities in extraordinary scenarios.”
Earlier this year, Cemex allowed firefighters from the three counties to carry out an elevator rescue training drill.
Kevin Carroll, Hernando County Fire Rescue deputy chief, says: “We are extremely grateful for Cemex’s support in helping us achieve our training goals and objectives, especially when it comes to our specialty rescue teams. We truly appreciate their longstanding commitment to Hernando County and Hernando County Fire Rescue.”
In January, Hernando County first responders are scheduled to revisit the plant to hold classes alerting Cemex employees of the risks of confined spaces as part of Cemex’s annual Safety Week.
