Injured Contractor Rescued From Bradenton Water Tower: Officials

BRADENTON, FL - A contractor injured while working on a city of Bradenton water tower, next to Fire Station 3 at 2901 59th Street West, was rescued on Wednesday, officials said in a news release.
The worker suffered a leg injury while doing maintenance work inside the structure.
Bradenton Fire Department personnel responded to the incident after the worker was hurt inside the tower, including crews that were conducting technical rescue turning exercises nearby.
Because of the contractor’s location within the structure, the crews had to carry out a high-angle technical rescue operation to get him out safely, officials said.
The worker, who was wearing appropriate safety equipment, was rescued in less than an hour.
After he was brought to the ground, the contractor was brought to a local hospital for medical evaluation.
“This incident highlights the value of ongoing training and preparedness,” Bradenton fire Chief Tim Geer said. “Our crews train regularly for technical rescue situations, and today’s response demonstrated that readiness. We’re grateful the incident resulted in a positive outcome and appreciate the assistance provided by our regional partners.”
Other local agencies also responded to assist with the rescue, including Cedar Hammock Fire Rescue, East Manatee Fire Rescue, North River Fire District, West Manatee Fire Rescue, and Manatee County EMS as agencies.