INYOKERN, Calif. | At approximately 12:40 p.m. on Friday, February 14th, Engine 83 responded to reports of a semi-truck rollover on Highway 395, just north of the 395/14 junction. High winds in the area have created significant hazards for truck drivers traveling along this highway. Upon arrival, Engine 83 found a semi-truck and trailer on its side and began assessing for patients. The California Highway Patrol (CHP) arrived on scene and began controlling traffic to allow the crew to continue operations safely.

Around 1:00 p.m., while crews continued to work and traffic was diverting around the scene of the initial accident, a gust of wind blew a passing semi-truck and trailer over, directly onto Engine 83. The speed of travel was slow due to CHP traffic control, and thankfully, all personnel were out of the hazard area. With no patients requiring care from the first incident, crews shifted their focus to the new incident. The front windshield of the semi-truck was removed with a reciprocating saw to allow access to the patients. Three patients were assisted out through the new opening, having sustained minor injuries from the accident. All three were transported to the hospital via ambulance for further evaluation.

Roadways create one of the most hazardous environments that first responders face. The frequency of exposure to traffic scenes and the high speeds inherent to highways make for a dangerous work environment. Incidents like this serve as a reminder of the potential risks associated with working on roadways, especially when compounded by external factors such as high winds. Please remember to slow down and create a safe distance when passing emergency personnel working along the roadway.