The Summit Volunteer First Aid Squad responded with 2 ambulances to a recent accident between a school bus and 2 cars on Rt. 78. The accident occurred just after 8:00 AM on Thursday May 29th.

Thursday's duty crew had just answered a call for a medical emergency in Summit when the request for an ambulance at the accident was received. 2 off duty squad members responded and found the Summit Fire Department on scene and attending to the driver from one of the cars. The crew determined that additional assistance was needed and a second crew of off duty members responded. John Staunton, senior EMT and crew chief for the Squad, responded with 2 other volunteers in Summit's 3rd ambulance and assumed the responsibility as Incident Commander, directing the medical care for all involved with the accident. After evaluating the scene, Mr. Staunton found that there were a total of 9 individuals that needed to be transported. This included 5 uninjured passengers on the school bus, however as per protocol the students were required to be brought to a medical facility. A call was issued for mutual assistance from the Millburn-Short Hills Volunteer First Aid Squad and Berkeley Heights Volunteer Rescue Squad, each responding with 1 ambulance. An ambulance from Atlantic Healthcare came upon the scene and also offered assistance.

According to Mr. Staunton, the injuries were fairly minor but the number of drivers and passengers involved created the need for a coordinated effort. "Thanks to the off duty Summit squad members that responded, the quick response to the mutual aid request by Millburn and Berkeley Heights, and the assistance provided by the Summit Fire Department and the Atlantic Healthcare crew, we were able to transport all individuals promptly and without incident," stated Mr. Staunton. All 9 patients were transported by ambulance to Overlook Hospital.

Summit Squad President Ken Herr mentioned that this is another example of the responsiveness of the volunteers at the squad. "There have been several times in the last few months where we have had all 3 of our ambulances on calls at the same time. This level of effort and dedication is truly appreciated," said Mr. Herr.

The Squad is always looking for new volunteers and provides all needed training and equipment. For information, please call 908-277-9479, or visit them on the Internet at www.summitems.org