05/23/2004:

Motorcycle Accident Sends One to Trauma Center

Big Tree firefighters were alerted Sunday, May 23, at 13:45 hours, for a motor vehicle accident involving a motorcycle. Chief Stoberl from Big Tree was first on location, followed closely by Big Tree's ambulance and Heavy Rescue. Arriving crews found the driver of the motorcycle unconscious lying in the roadway.

Suffering from a severe head injury, the patient required immediate respiratory support. EMS personnel ventilated the patient with a bag-valve mask and immediately requested an air medical unit capable of providing rapid sequence intubation. While awaiting the arrival of the medical helicopter, the patient was immobilized on a backboard and IV access was established.

During the air medical crew’s assessment, their helicopter suffered a mechanical problem and was grounded by the pilot. Big Tree subsequently initiated ground transport of the patient to the Erie County Medical Center. The patient was listed in critical condition upon arrival at the trauma center.