The Summit Volunteer First Aid Squad responded to a motor vehicle accident late Monday night July 28th that involved an overturned vehicle. The accident occurred on Springfield Avenue near DeBary Place. Also responding to the scene were the Summit Police & Fire Departments and a paramedic unit from Overlook Hospital.

Squad President John Staunton, who is also the Monday night crew chief lives nearby and arrived on the scene in less than a minute, followed shortly by squad member Chris Johnston. All 4 occupants were outside the vehicle, and Johnston and Staunton began triage and treatment immediately. Based on the nature of the accident and number of patients, Staunton requested a 2nd ambulance, a paramedic unit to assist with 1 patient who appeared to need more intensive care, and the Summit Fire Department to deal with the overturned vehicle.

Staunton assigned responsibilities to the other Squad members as they arrived. 3 of the occupants were placed in neck collars and on backboards, with 1 transported to Morristown Memorial Hospital. The others were transported to Overlook Hospital. In total, 7 Squad members with 2 ambulances responded to the incident. "In an incident of this nature, it is important to quickly determine the priority of each patient. Our volunteers are well prepared to provide the immediate care needed, and each individual from the vehicle was treated and transported quickly. I'm always proud of how well our volunteers perform when it really counts," Mr. Staunton said.

The Squad is always looking for new volunteers and provides all needed training and equipment. For more information, please visit the Squad’s web site at www.summitems.org, or call 908-277-9479.