Joint training strengthens emergency response at Harbison State Forest
by Harbison State Forest Director Trip Miller
Staff from Harbison State Forest partnered with the Richland County Fire Department for a joint training exercise focused on locating, stabilizing and extracting an injured trail user from remote areas of the forest.
The training allowed firefighters and Harbison staff to practice coordinating an emergency response in the challenging terrain often found along the forest’s trail system.
Crews worked through scenarios involving steep creek banks, muddy conditions and limited vehicle access while using an off-road litter carrier designed specifically for backcountry rescue operations.
The off-road litter carrier, purchased through support from the Friends of Harbison State Forest, is an important addition to the forest’s emergency response capabilities.
The specialized equipment allows responders to safely transport injured visitors through areas that are difficult to access with traditional rescue vehicles.
In addition to improving familiarity with the equipment, the exercise gave both agencies an opportunity to strengthen communication and coordination before a real emergency occurs.
