A person who was reportedly sleeping inside a dumpster has been rescued after becoming trapped inside a garbage truck in Maine.
Videos by Wide Open Country
Firefighters in Sanford responded to the unusual emergency on June 24, launching a complex rescue operation.
When crews arrived, they discovered an injured person trapped in the front section of the truck's garbage compartment.
Garbage Truck Rescue Sparks Major Emergency Response
According to the Sanford Fire Department, the incident was quickly upgraded to a technical rescue. This was due to the confined-space and high-angle challenges involved.
Additional personnel and specialized equipment were dispatched to the scene.
"Upon the arrival of the initial companies, it was found that an individual was injured and trapped in the forward section of the garbage container," a statement read.
"It appears that the individual was sleeping in or otherwise occupying a dumpster that was unloaded into the garbage truck."
The department said emergency medical personnel entered the truck to begin treating the patient. While rescue crews worked to safely free them.
Members of the Technical Rescue Team, along with other firefighters, carefully removed the individual from the garbage truck.
The person was then transported to Maine Medical Center in Portland for further treatment.
Fire Department Praises Specialized Rescue Team
The identity of the injured person has not been released, and officials have not disclosed the extent of their injuries.
"The actions of all personnel and the successful outcomes of this incident shows the vital importance of training as well as the departments continuous commitment to be prepared for any and all emergencies," the statement added.
"Being a specialized low-frequency high-risk event, the investment made in creating a Technical Rescue Team has proven its worth."
The Sanford Fire Department officially launched its Technical Rescue Team in October 2024. This was to respond to complex emergencies such as confined-space, trench, and high-angle rescues.
At the time, Fire Chief Scott Susi described the new unit as "a significant milestone" for the department.
"We are committed to providing the highest level of service to our community, and this team will be a valuable asset in protecting the lives and safety of our residents," Susi said.
