Successful Rescue in Florence County!

The South Lynches Fire Department in Florence County responded to an incident this morning at the Santee-Cooper Substation on Beulah Rd. behind Nanya Plastics in Lake City, SC. Three Santee-Cooper employees were installing a new large transformer when the first man entered the transformer from the top not knowing it contained nitrogen. He passed out and his co-worker entered to assist him and also passed out. The supervisor then was overcome from the nitrogen and fell into the transformer.

South Lynches Fire Department responded with one engine, rescue and tower-ladder along with Florence County and Williamsburg County EMS. Lake City Fire Department was requested and sent their tower-ladder.

SLFD Lts. Danny Gaskins and David Cantey entered the transformer and successfully removed all three unconscious victims. Two victims were airlifted to the hospital and the third was transported by ground ambulance.  All are in satisfactory condition at this time.  Hats off to all who participated in this life-saving operation!

Note:  Danny Gaskins is an Engineer on Engine 115 in the Charleston Fire Department as well as a Lieutenant in the South Lynches Fire Department.