Umatilla Electric Cooperative (UEC) line crews complete simulated pole-top rescue training using realistic scenarios on Tuesday, Sept. 16 at UEC's training yard in Hermiston. In partnership with Baker Technical Institute (BTI), UEC line crews participated in simulated emergencies involving pole top rescue maneuvers, mayday calls, and the use of life-saving skills such as CPR, first aid, and AED use. In addition to our team, Umatilla County Fire District 1 (UCFD #1) also had staffing on site to share insight on best practices for life-saving maneuvers in emergency situations.
The full training cohort was divided into groups, each creating a realistic emergency scenario that could happen in the field. Each group then set up their emergency simulation, and another group at the training had to approach the situation, assess, problem solve, and eventually make a rescue and communicate back to the dispatch center and emergency services, if needed. After each rescue, the full group debriefed the situation together and evaluated what changes could be made to improve the rescue.
Many crew members commented on the value of the training and the realistic feeling of making critical decisions in a short amount of time. Crew members performed well, taking the training very seriously and finding the best ways to help their simulated injured colleague. This training is repeated each year for our line crews and continues to be well received by all in attendance.
“The more realistic these trainings can be, the more prepared our team will be, should an emergency situation come to fruition,” says Chris McMahon, safety and security administrator. “We’re thrilled to continue to develop the training with BTI and UCFD #1, preparing our crews for as many situations as possible.”
BTI has partnered with UEC for many utility training courses as they continue to expand their training staff and focus on utility safety. At UEC, safety is more than a policy - it’s a core value that guides how we serve our members and support our employees. We’re proud to continue to invest in the skills and preparedness of our staff across the organization.