Firefighters rescue 2 stuck in crane

LONG BEACH - Long Beach firefighters rescued two people trapped in the cab of a large cargo crane on Tuesday.Firefighters responded to 1521 Harbor Scenic Drive at 6:44 p.m. after receiving a report of two people injured in a crane. The victims, a male and a female in their 50s, were hurt when the crane they were riding in came to a sudden stop. Their injuries prohibited them from climbing down to waiting emergency workers below, officials said. Firefighters rigged a lowering system, utilizing a hoist line from the crane's engine room. "This process was very challenging when you consider the cab of the crane sits a dizzying 200 feet above the ground," a fire department spokesman said. The victims were lowered to the ground in a steel basket while a firefighter rode with them to maintain contact and provide stability. They were rushed to a local hospital after reaching ground.

********** Published: November 4, 2010 - Volume 9 - Issue 29