(June 23, 2009) -- Two people aboard the Pike's gently moving Ferris wheel got more thrills than they bargained for on Monday night (June 22) when they found themselves stuck at the top...and LB firefighters rescued them using a LB Fire Truck's extendable ladder basket.
LBFD describes the skillful operation when LBFD Trucks 1 and 7 and Battalion Chief one responded at about 9:34 p.m. to a report of two people stuck at the top of ride:
[begin LBFD text] Truck 1 arrived on scene and determined that a mechanical malfunction had occurred causing the two people to be stuck at the apex of the wheel. After consulting with the operators, maintenance personnel, and attempting numerous ways of bringing the car down unsuccessfully, Truck 7 was requested to respond. This apparatus has a "Basket" attached at the top of the ladder and due to safety concerns, the plan was to have the stuck individuals exit the car and enter the basket to be lowered to ground level.
LBFD photo
Once Truck 7 arrived on scene the Engineer carefully drove up a curb and over a sidewalk to a grassy area directly beneath the Ferris wheel, and extended the ladder approximately 60 feet above ground level. Raising the ladder proved to be quit a challenge due to having to move the basket into perfect position to provide for a safe transfer, and to ensure that no damage was done to the Ferris wheel. With the skillful operation of the ladder completed by two firefighters from inside the basket, the rescue of the trapped occupants was accomplished.
LBFD photo
With the cheers of all of the "Onlookers" who had stopped to take in this unique site, the man and woman both in there early 20’s expressed their gratitude to the firefighters for helping them back on to solid ground after about 45 minutes of overlooking the skyline of Long Beach.
LBFD photo
There were no injuries to the two people involved, who were re-united with friends to continue on with the rest of the evenings activities, minus any more Ferris wheel rides for a very long time...
LBFD photo
A total of 3 apparatus and 9 personnel responded to the call and worked for approximately an hour.
