News editor Victoria Fear heads to Holbeach Fire Station to experience what it’s like to be rescued from a car crash

Having reported on hundreds of car crashes over the years, I have been very fortunate not to have been in a serious one, but last week I was able to experience what it was like to be rescued by firefighters.

I joined the team at Holbeach fire station for one of their weekly training sessions when I was cut from a car and carried to safety by the team.

The team started off by breaking one of the car windows in order to get into the vehicle and help me. I was expecting a big hammer to smash through the glass and sending shards flying.

But this was the first of many surprises during this experience.

Firefighters placed what looked like cling film over the window in order to prevent the scene and after a small bang, crew members were able to lift this free in one piece.

Next, a firefighter greeted me and then switched off the ignition.

Crew manager Stephen Kingshott said it was important for the engine to be off.

He said: “The amount of times we get to a crash and the engine is still running - but it is the last thing that is on your mind if you have been in a nasty crash.

“It’s best to switch off the engine in case electricity is sparking under the bonnet.”

Stephen also pointed out that the car had been lifted from its suspension.

He said: “If the ambulance service want the roof off, then we take the roof off.”

Next thing, the team used a piece of equipment which resembled a large spanner to cut the hinges from the car door in order to get me out.

The team then had the most difficult job – and I am sorry for the large tea I had scoffed prior to going to the station – lifting me safely from the car.

First something was shuffled underneath me, before I was carefully placed on a spinal board and moved away from the car.

Here Stephen has some more advice – especially as I kept moving my head about.

He said: “The best thing is to keep still. When you have had a car crash, you could have a spinal injury. The trouble we find is a lot of people are moving their head around, if they have injured then they could be doing more damage that is why we try to keep you level and nice straight.”

Hopefully this is something that I never have to experience for real – but if I do I know I am in safe hands.