Vancouver Firefighters Conduct High-Angle Rescue After Man Falls Down Steep Embankment Near Commercial-Broadway Station
Vancouver firefighters sprang into action on Friday to conduct a high-angle rescue after a man fell down a steep embankment near Commercial-Broadway station. The incident took place at the Grandview Cut, a human-made ravine that serves as a right of way for CN Rail and the SkyTrain.
Rescuers had to rappel down approximately 45 meters (150 feet) to reach the bottom of the ravine, which is known for being a hangout spot and dumping ground. Laura Christensen, a Vancouver Park Board Commissioner who lives across the street, expressed her concerns about the dangerous area, stating that people are often seen engaging in risky behavior near the fence.
According to Vancouver Fire Rescue Services Battalion Chief Randy Boruck, incidents like this are not uncommon in the area, with firefighters being called to conduct a rescue every four to six months. Boruck emphasized that his crews are familiar with the location and were able to quickly execute a rescue plan.
The individual who fell down the embankment was taken to the hospital with unspecified injuries. Christensen hopes that this latest incident will prompt authorities to improve security measures around the fence to prevent future accidents. The fire department has reportedly raised concerns about the fences to both Vancouver police and CN police.
Overall, the incident serves as a reminder of the importance of safety measures in potentially hazardous areas like the Grandview Cut.