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In response to Sikh temple shooting, Wis. chief creates alternative to gurneys, stretchers

“We’re able to get the stretcher under the patient and drag them to what amounts to a safer area and use less rescuers,” said Fitchburg Fire Chief Joe Pulvermacher

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Fitchburg Fire Chief and former Oak Creek Battalion Chief Joe Pulvermacher said using the Mega Mover maximizes resources and helps first responders move patients faster.

Photo/Fitchburg Fire Rescue

By Leila Merrill

FITCHBURG, Wis. — Fitchburg Fire Chief and former Oak Creek Battalion Chief Joe Pulvermacher told Spectrum News that after the 2012 shooting at a Sikh temple near Milwaukee that killed seven people, he knew that first responders needed additional support.

He worked with Graham Medical to create the Mega Mover — a lightweight alternative to a stretcher or gurney that can be used in active shooter situations and other volatile situations.

The product can be rolled up and worn by a rescuer who can use it to drag a victim to a safer place. The Mega Mover has a chest strap to keep the patient in place, according to Graham Medical.

“So with this, we’re able to get the stretcher under the patient and drag them to what amounts to a safer area and use less rescuers,” Pulvermacher said. “So we’re maximizing our effort, moving more patients using fewer rescuers.”

Learn more information about the Mega Mover here.