| At 2:10 pm, our department was alerted for a rescue of an individual requiring physical assistance near Black Rock Tunnel. The caller reported an individual had traversed a steep incline along the Schuylkill River to access an area at the tunnel, but was unable to return up the incline.
ATV, Deputy, Rescue, and MICU 65-1 responded to the incident. Firefighters arrived on location and used one of the paths along the river to access the individual. Taking various issues into account, it was determined the best method to assist the individual was to use our ATV to access the railroad bridge. Chester County Dispatch contacted Norfolk Southern at our request to temporarily stop train traffic in the area while we operated on and near the tracks. The individual, who was uninjured, was assisted onto the bridge and then transported back to their vehicle.
We would like to take this opportunity to remind anyone who plans to view the "Big Boy No. 4014" Steam Locomotive as it passes through Phoenixville later this week and next week, please exercise extreme caution and sensible judgement. Much of the active railroad tracks through Phoenixville are located in areas that are difficult to access and bordered by private property, in addition to the railroad property which allows no trespassing. Also, Union Pacific is asking everyone to stay back a minimum of 25' from the railroad tracks (this includes drones), during the passage of Big Boy. We urge anyone wishing to view the passing of Big Boy to look for locations in and outside of Phoenixville which are easily accessible, not private property, and locations hosting gatherings and viewing parties. |
