Irmo, SC (Paul Kirby) – A 12-year-old boy is safe after firefighters helped him off a steep embankment leading down to the railroad tracks on Wescott Road in Irmo Sunday afternoon. According to Irmo Fire District Battalion Chief Randy Arrant, firefighters were able to get to the boy and help him climb down from a perch above the tracks.
Fire crews were prepared to rig ropes and either lower themselves or rappel down to the boy if necessary. The Irmo Fire District's incident commander had already requested that Lexington County respond with their technical rescue team in case extra equipment or personnel were needed. A Lexington County EMS unit stood by during the entire operation and deputies assisted with traffic control and whatever else they could do.
Apparently, the boy had climbed down a steep back that led to the railroad tracks below. At some point, he got scared and froze on the incline, making it necessary for firefighters to respond. Once they arrived, they realized the boy had not fallen and was safe, just stuck. They were able to help him get off the face of the embankment with the assistance and encouragement of the firefighters.
According to Chief Arrant, even though Irmo's trucks and others from Lexington County were on the scene, the boy wasn't in any real danger, although he was very scared. Once Irmo firefighters were able to get to him, they encouraged him to climb to safety with them.
No one was injured in the rescue. The railroad tracks are open, and the boy is safe.
