Firefighters Fix Injured Merrimack Man's Roof

Merrimack firefighters pitched in to complete a roofing project after a traumatic accident yesterday, according to John Manuele of the Merrimack Fire Department.

At around 3:30 p.m. on May 4, fire and rescue teams were sent to Lesa Drive for "a delta level medical emergency," the nature of the call was for fall related injury.

"The patient had been doing a roofing project at the residence and apparently fell from the roof," Manuele noted. "Upon arrival, CPR was already being performed by a family member. Fire personnel took over CPR and treatment and activated the trauma team at St. Joseph’s hospital due to the nature and seriousness of the injuries."

The patient, an elderly man, was transported to St. Joseph’s Hospital in life threatening condition, according to Manuele.

After returning from the hospital, the on-duty shift became concerned that with the incoming rain and the roof not being complete, that significant damage to the home could occur. Also the family was unlikely to be able to secure the roof before the rain.

Manuele said the on-duty shift decided to return to the home with the intention of covering the roof with a tarp to prevent water damage to the home.

"Once on scene they realized that the project was nearly complete," he noted. "With the permission of the family, the firefighters set about finishing the roofing project. Within a short time several neighbors recognized what was going and came out to lend a hand."

With the help from the neighbors, the firefighters were able to finish the job and clean up the area in a couple of hours, he said.