We would like to thank you for highlighting the efforts and significant training that all fire, EMS and law enforcement personnel undergo to be able to assist those in times of crisis as portrayed in the article published in the Bonner County Daily Bee on July 8, 2017, “Crews put steep-angle rescue training into practice in crash.”

In addition to the information published in the article the Northside team would like to be sure to acknowledge and thank all of those who assisted in the five-person rescue on July 1. This incident was a fantastic example of a successful and cooperative effort between seven different agencies all working to rescue the family in a serious crisis — Bonner County Sheriff, Northside Fire, Bonner County EMS, Life Flight, Selkirk Fire, Idaho State Police, and the Idaho State Highway Department.

Prior to arrival of Northside Fire personnel, the Bonner County Sheriff’s Office (first on scene), with the assistance of several good Samaritans, were able to successfully rescue three patients from the car, up to the road to be able to be assessed by EMS when they arrived. As the six-person Northside steep-angle rescue team began rescue of the other two patients, the assistance and three additional personnel from Selkirk Fire were appreciated, such that the 50-foot embankment rescue was able to be completed successfully, in a timely manner. The state highway department provided traffic control and set up detours such that all the other fire, EMS and law enforcement on scene could work safely in their rescue efforts. Bonner County EMS and Life Flight took great care of each patient, and Idaho State Police investigated the accident. Our team at Northside is very pleased with how well all agencies involved cooperated to make this a successful rescue.

As public servants, we appreciate the public recognition of the time, effort and training each firefighter, EMT, first responder and law officer put into helping those in time of emergency. Thank you for the support in service to our community.

CAPT. ERIC CLAYTON

CHIEF BRAD MITTON

Northside Fire District

Ponderay