On December 14, 2020, Laurel Volunteer Fire Department responded to a report of a motor vehicle accident on I-90 westbound between exit 432 and exit 434. Road conditions were poor with snow and ice covered roadways. While on scene, a secondary incident occurred involving a semi-trailer truck and LVFD's Squad 5. Thankfully, no firefighter, EMS staff, highway patrolman, or bystander was injured during this incident. Squad 5 was taken out of service for over a year to get repaired leaving LVFD with only secondary rescue apparatus.
Incidents like this occur frequently across the Country. There is an increased chance of a secondary incident occurring while first responders are on scene of the first incident.
Due of this incident, LVFD implemented a new Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) to protect first responders on an incident scene. When LVFD responds to incidents in a high speed area a "blocker" truck will be used to protect first due apparatus and first responders on scene. The "blocker" truck adds increased visibility and creates a large barrier between the traveling public and the incident scene.
Additionally, LVFD was able to purchase a variable message sign (VMS board) in June of 2024. This VMS board is mounted on top of Support 1 and can display different messages to the traveling public to warn upcoming drivers, shift traffic, close roadways, and convey any other important information.
