Firefighters Rescue Teen from Stuck Metal Ring Using Cutting Tool

In an unusual incident in Gerasdorf, a teenager found himself in a precarious situation when a metal ring became lodged on his finger, rendering him unable to remove it. Seeking assistance, he contacted the local volunteer fire department, Freiwillige Feuerwehr Gerasdorf.

Upon arrival, the firefighters initially attempted to lubricate the metal ring with a special spray to facilitate its removal, but these efforts proved futile. Recognizing the need for a more drastic solution, the team decided to cut the ring off his finger.

Utilizing a straight grinder equipped with a cutting disc, a dedicated team of five to six firefighters carefully executed the operation. To mitigate the risk of burns from heat generated by the cutting process, they wrapped the affected finger in a damp cloth and placed a screwdriver underneath for added protection. Continuous water spraying was employed to keep the metal cool during the operation.

Remarkably, the entire procedure took only five minutes, resulting in the safe removal of the metal ring without causing injury to the teenager. The commander of the fire department expressed relief at the successful resolution of the incident.

This event, while unusual, is not a common occurrence for the fire department, which typically responds to a variety of emergencies. In the current year, the Freiwillige Feuerwehr Gerasdorf has already been called out for 24 incidents, while the previous year saw a total of 244 calls, predominantly related to adverse weather conditions and storms. Fire-related incidents only account for a small fraction of their overall responses.

The fire department boasts a robust membership, including 103 active members, 14 youth members, 17 reserves, and five honorary members. The youth program plays a crucial role in maintaining operational readiness, with young members transitioning to active service upon reaching the age of 15. The department also welcomes individuals from outside the youth program, ensuring a steady influx of new recruits to sustain their capabilities.