Magherafelt firefighters commended with rescue service's highest award

Using hydraulic cutting equipment, firefighters had to remove the roof of the vehicle, but due to its position this proved to be very difficult. Their innovative approach to saving the casualties from the car has resulted in them being awarded the highest honour the Fire Service has to give.

Speaking at the Chief Fire Officer’s Commendation presentation, NIFRS Group Commander Eamon McGrath said: “For Magherafelt retained firefighters to receive this acknowledgement from the Chief Fire Officer is very pleasing.

“Those firefighters involved had to apply their training in a difficult situation with the primary objective to save lives. The innovative techniques used to help rescue the casualties was far beyond those of standard operating procedures.”

Magherafelt firefighters were assisted by colleagues from Ballymena and Antrim Fire Stations during the incident, after which both casualties were taken to hospital for treatment to their injuries.