Photo's taken by Butch Garrity - Lanesboro Fire Department
By Jenn Smith, Berkshire Eagle Staff
Article Last Updated: 10/11/2008 03:01:26 AM EDT
Saturday, October 11
LANESBOROUGH — The town of Lanesborough has been cashing in to save lives.
Several years ago, Lanesborough Supermarket initiated a bottle and can donation program called "Cans for Lives" with the Lanesborough Fire Department, with all proceeds going to purchase rescue equipment.
The department recently completed its training with a newly acquired Res-Q-Jack system, thanks to the fund.
Using rams and straps, the system will be able to help emergency responders stabilize a vehicle in any position following a collision or involvement with heavy debris.
"A lot of times, a vehicle in a precarious position can rock back and forth and could roll over rescuers," said Deputy Fire Chief Charles Garrity III.
Once the Res-Q-Jack stabilizes a vehicle, rescuers will be able to manually remove the person or utilize the Jaws of Life for a quicker extrication.
The department was able to purchase the new equipment and attachments for approximately $3,000.
Since the Cans for Lives program began, the fire department has been able to purchase nearly $10,000 worth of extrication equipment and other rescue tools that it otherwise would not have been able to obtain.
The other equipment includes cold-water rescue gear, an ATV and multi-seasonal rescue sled used primarily in mountainous terrain, all which have been instrumental in saving a significant number of lives.
"Every time someone
brings in a can or two, it helps," said Garrity. "The Lanesborough Fire Department is deeply indebted to the Lanesborough Supermarket and its owners Mike and Nancy Gomes and Mike Zaccaria, as well as to the residents of the town who make donations."
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