Members of the Bruce Crossing Fire Department practice Jaws of Life extraction techniques on an old derelict vehicle donated by the Michigan Trails and Recreation Alliance of Land and the Environment organization. (Photos courtesy of MI-TRALE)

BRUCE CROSSING — Any first responder or emergency worker will tell you that realistic training, the kind that puts participants in authentic situations, not only desirable but absolutely essential as far as professional preparation is concerned.

That was the situation in Bruce Crossing recently when the Michigan Trails and Recreation Alliance of Land and the Environment donated its old, non-functioning trail maintenance truck to the Bruce Crossing Fire Department for use in Jaws of Life extraction training

MI-TRALE is a private, non-profit an alliance of multiple trail and outdoor recreation enthusiasts. Founded in June 2001, MI-TRALE supports both motorized and non-motorized trail enthusiasts who value the environment and work to develop trail opportunities in the western Upper Peninsula.

“A big ‘shout out’ to MI-TRALE for the donation of their vehicle and Al’s Auto of Bruce Crossing for donating their yard to make this training event a complete success,” said Matt Linna, BCFD fire chief.

An intensive training session was held Tuesday, June 3 at Al’s Auto in Bruce Crossing. During the training, seven firemen from the BCFD learned specialized maneuvers to quickly remove a victim from harm in a vehicle during an emergency.

The vehicle was largely left in pieces.

Vice-President Jon Fourez said the ability to practice on a real vehicle made all the difference.

“It was so interesting to hear the explanations of how better the tools could be held so that they would be doing the work and the firefighter wouldn’t be straining himself,” Fourez said. “Also amazing to see what the men and machines could do to safely extract an accident victim from a vehicle.”

Bud Sargent can be reached at 906-228-2500. His email address is bsargent@miningjournal.net