A crane was utilized in a dramatic rescue to save two individuals from a burning high-rise building.
The man operating the machine described the operation as a “close call,” as he was forced to take action when a significant fire erupted at the construction site in Reading.
A video shared on social media depicted a worker being saved in a white enclosure, utilizing a crane operated by Edwards. A group of individuals on the ground cheered as he was raised to safety.
Edwards, a 65-year-old from Egham in Surrey, stated that while he was approximately 20 meters above ground level, he noticed an individual standing on the edge of the building through his left-hand window.
“I had just spotted him when someone asked me to put the cage on. So, I quickly got the cage on and brought it over to him as best as I could. The wind was quite strong, and it was a close call. If you watch the video, you can see how the wind was swirling around.”
“I attempted to place the cage in between him and the fire, but the strong gusts of wind hindered my efforts. Nevertheless, I successfully lowered the cage and was able to capture him inside.”
The man was subsequently brought down to the ground. Edwards, who had been employed at the location prior to the fire, downplayed his heroic actions, stating: “I don’t want to exaggerate, I’m not that type of individual.”
Firefighters reported that a second individual was rescued from the construction site using a crane. According to Christopher Hutton of the Royal Berkshire fire and rescue service, they were alerted to a fire on Station Hill in Reading around 11:30 AM. At its height, more than 50 firefighters from various stations in the county were present at the scene. The fire was discovered in a tall building that was still being built. Firefighters wearing breathing apparatus utilized two primary hoses to put out the fire.
Two individuals were saved by a crane and are now under the care of the South Central ambulance service. Thankfully, all other individuals have been located. The fire has been put out and our team has reduced their presence at the site. However, some crews will continue to stay at the scene to prevent any further flare-ups.
A representative from the South Central ambulance service stated that two individuals were transported to the Royal Berkshire hospital and that neither of them was in critical condition.
This is the second occurrence within a few months of a fire taking place at the construction site. The previous blaze occurred in July, prompting the Thames Valley police to declare a major incident.
The fire occurred on the 12th and 13th floors of the building, and the Royal Berkshire fire and rescue service reported that it was promptly identified and put out.
Source: theguardian.com
