Jan. 24, 2014—Members of Team PRP’s national network of independent auto recyclers have partnered to donate vehicles to emergency first responders for training purposes.
Team PRP said there are several new technologies incorporated into late model vehicles that create dangers for first responders at the scenes of accidents. The organization’s members have donated several vehicles to help emergency personnel become knowledgeable and alert to new technologies such as high-voltage batteries, restraint systems, airbags and high-pressure gas cylinders.
“For the safety of all involved, it is imperative that emergency professionals are thoroughly trained and up-to-date concerning safe handling procedures for extrication,” Team PRP said.
In addition to hands-on emergency training, Team PRP said there is often a need to train first responders on accident investigation procedures.
Economy Auto Center, a Team PRP member based in Tulsa, Okla., recently assisted Oklahoma Highway Patrol by donating two vehicles to be utilized in a crash test during a national law enforcement convention in October.
Another Team PRP member, Knox Auto Parts in Knoxville, TN, similarly donates vehicles that are utilized by the Karns Fire Department in Knoxville for first responder training. Tom Denton, co-owner of Knox, said the business provides a number of salvaged vehicles training space for first responders about three times annually.
“We’ll continue to help them as long as they need us,” said Denton.
“The donation of salvaged vehicles to assist our heroic first responders is perhaps one of the most important ways this industry, and our generous partners, have made a very positive difference,” said Stacy Bartnik, executive director of Team PRP.
