Trench rescue operation in Lake Stevens

Published 3:41 pm Tuesday, September 16, 2008

LAKE STEVENS – Fire and emergency crews are working to remove a man from a trench after he was struck on the head by a chain at a Lake Stevens construction site.

The man is conscious and alert, Lake Stevens Fire Department Deputy Chief Dave Lingenfelter said. Emergency crews are working on a plan to reach the man and place him on a backboard to prevent any additional injuries, he said.

Fire crews from around the county specially trained in technical rescues are on scene.

The man apparently was working inside a large concrete box inside a 20-foot trench on 81st Avenue NE when he was hit on the head by a broken chain. The trench hasn’t collapsed but crews need to take precautions that the trench is secure before attempting to reach the man, Lingenfelter said.

Drivers should avoid the area, officials said.