The Twin Falls Fire Department never stops training and on Thursday, May 9 that training helped lead rescue efforts for two injured BASE jumpers.
Just after 1 p.m. Thursday, emergency dispatchers received a call about a BASE jumper who collided with the Snake River Canyon wall after his parachute malfunctioned. The Perrine Bridge in Twin Falls is one of two locations that legally allows BASE jumping.
Although the injured jumper was responsive, he was severely injured in the fall. Twin Falls firefighters are specially trained in 'high-angle rescue' to safely retrieve and transport individuals from areas that are deemed too steep for traditional rescue methods.
Firefighters were able to transport the injured jumper from a ledge in the canyon to an Air Saint Luke's helicopter. He suffered from at least three compound fractures and other severe injuries.
Only a few hours later, a second BASE jumper was injured when his parachute failed to deploy properly and he fell into the Snake River. The Twin Falls County Sheriff's office was able to transport the jumper by boat to a waiting ambulance.
Twin Falls firefighters frequently train in the Rock Creek and Snake River canyons, as the communities unique geography attracts rock climbers, BASE jumpers and other enthusiasts who are drawn to the region's unique canyons.
Unfortunately, accidents do happen. But when they do, citizens can be assured that the Twin Falls Fire Department's unique training can provide the best possible care at the most critical moments.