Something needs to be done to protect emergency services personnel from vulnerability at accident sites.
In a second such instance, three firefighters were struck by a vehicle while they were responding to another motor vehicle collision in Uxbridge.
Early last month, two firefighters were hurt in a similar manner at a crash site in Clarington (see below).
The two events have sent shock waves among authorities.
“This incident reminds us of the risks emergency responders face every time they answer the call. Our first responders need space to do their jobs safely. I urge all residents to slow down and move over when you see emergency vehicles stopped with lights flashing. This isn’t just the law—it’s about saving lives. Please do your part to protect those who protect us,” said John Henry, Regional Chair and CEO.
Durham Regional Police Association said its thoughts were with our three first responder partners in Uxbridge Fire. We are hoping for a positive outcome and full recovery for all four parties involved.
“This incident highlights the ongoing dangers that first responders face with every call they attend. Constant unknowns and hazards are always a concern. Please be vigilant while driving by scenes or around active emergency vehicles,” it added.
Police Association of Ontario also said its thoughts were with the three injured firefighters and the other individual involved in this collision…”we wish each of them a full recovery. Incidents like this emphasize the real risks our members face daily. Please #SlowDownAndMoveOver when you see emergency vehicles on the road”.
The Accident
On Sunday, November 16 at about 7:40 pm, members of the North Division and Uxbridge Fire Department responded to a collision that involved a transport truck and pick-up truck towing a trailer. It was believed to be a result of hazardous road conditions due to snow and ice.
The collision took place at Wagg Road near Old Highway 47. While emergency crews were assisting with this collision, another vehicle lost control, hitting three firefighters and the driver of the transport truck, before crashing through a fence and into a tree.
A 42-year-old firefighter was air lifted to a Toronto-area trauma center in critical condition and where he is now listed as critical but stable. A 37-year-old fire captain was transported to a Toronto-area trauma center with serious injuries. A 54-year-old fire captain was transported to a local hospital with minor injuries and has since been released. The transport truck driver was transported to a local area hospital with minor injuries. The driver of the SUV sustained minor injuries.
The driver of the SUV remained on scene and cooperated with police.
Members of the DRPS Collision Investigation Unit attended the scene to conduct an investigation. The roadway was closed for several hours while evidence was collected.
Anyone with information about this incident or who witnessed this collision is asked to contact D/Cst Hoevenaars of the Collision Investigation Unit at 1-888-579-1520 ext. 5255.
Earlier Crash
Truck rams into firetruck at 401 crash, two firefighters hurt
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