Press Release: Wilton Firefighters Receive Distinguished Lifesaving Awards

Wilton, CT – Seven Wilton firefighters received Certificates of Achievement and Gold Pin Awards at the Board of Fire Commissioners meeting this evening from the Holmatro Rescue Tool Company for their distinguished lifesaving efforts at a motor vehicle accident on June 17, 2007. 

Shortly before 9:00 AM that day, Wilton firefighters were dispatched to an accident on Vista Road along with the Wilton EMS and Police Departments.  Upon arrival, they found a passenger car on its side with extensive damage and the driver trapped.  Firefighters utilized their hydraulic and electric rescue equipment, as well as various hand tools to quickly extricate the driver so he could be transported to Norwalk Hospital.  Thanks to the rapid situational assessment, stabilization of the vehicle and extrication, the driver is recovering from non-life threatening injuries.

In letters to each of the seven Wilton firefighters, William Swayne, President of Holmatro Rescue Equipment said “In your hands, these tools help you make the difference between life and death.  These Gold Pin Awards and Certificates of Achievement recognize your outstanding performance, dedication and commitment to your department and the community you serve.”

Recognized for their efforts were Captain Karl Dolnier, Captain Kevin Czarnecki, Lieutenant Tom Cassin, and Firefighters Brad Carlson, Michael Pryor, William Sampson and William Wilson. 

The favorable outcome of this situation resulted from a combination of the efforts of the firefighters and the fact that the driver had his seatbelt on.  The Wilton Fire Department would like to remind residents that proper use of seatbelts for all passengers, along with supplemental restraint systems such as air bags save lives.