Area firefighters receive training using heavy wreckers in vehicle rescues

LE MARS, Iowa (KTIV) - Area fire departments underwent intensive heavy vehicle extrication training Oct. 11 and 12, learning critical skills to rescue individuals trapped in vehicles.

The 14-hour course, held at Stockton Towing, brought together 30 people from all over Siouxland for a unique, hands-on experience.

The training, facilitated by Crossroads Training out of Terre Haute, Indiana, allowed multiple fire departments to utilize heavy wrecker equipment in simulated rescue scenarios.

Justin Wood, a Heavy Wrecker Operator with Stockton Towing, said the training allowed wreckers to work alongside firefighters.

“This is the first time we’re hosting something like this with bringing in Crossroads Training,” Wood said. “Usually we’re not nearly as involved with the extrication. We just