Polk Township Volunteer Fire Company and Jeff Syracuse, owner and tow truck operator at Syracuse Auto Body, have been recognized with the Hurst Green Cross award.

The Green Cross award honors rescues made by men and women who defy danger.

It’s a symbol of recognition for those who have used Hurst Jaws of Life products to save lives.

On Nov. 30, 2022, the fire company was dispatched to a motor vehicle crash.

It was upgraded to a crash with heavy entrapment.

Crews arrived to find a vehicle that had rolled through a telephone pole and the driver trapped inside. The pole hanging above was on fire, Polk Township Fire Chief Billy Tippett said.

“Members of Polk Township Volunteer Fire Company jumped into action and made the decision to begin an extrication evolution knowing the danger hanging above them,” Tippett said.

Syracuse was requested by the state police. While working on extricating the patient, the fire on the pole burned closer to a transformer on the pole. Syracuse positioned his truck in a manner to move the vehicle if needed.

In coordination with Lehigh Valley Health Network emergency personnel, it was decided the danger was too great and the vehicle was moved shortly before extrication was complete. It was a total of 36 minutes from dispatch until the patient was on the stretcher and EMS care.

West End fire company assisted with traffic control and a helicopter landing zone.

The patient is still recovering and improving.