24.07.2007

Stuck in the lift

Michele LaGrasso and her cousin Emma Busch were enjoying a ride in a cable suspended lift at the World Forestry Center in Portland Oregon yesterday, when a malfunction caused the emergency brakes to lock on six or seven metres up.

When the brake could not be released after 45 minutes or so, firemen decided to lower the ladies to the ground using a Rappel rescue. The entire event was captured on video.

The lift, which is a cross between a suspended platform and double ‘bosuns chair’ takes visitors to the center up though the forest canopy, explaining the life and events at each level.

As the rescue proceeded family members and other visitors looked on, offering encouraging shouts and advice, while some young visitors ignored the rescue and simply continued playing with interactive exhibits.

The whole process looked like a rescue demonstration.

Meanwhile Gary Hartshorn, president and CEO of the Forestry Center gave a running commentary to the news crew taking the video, clearly embarrassed by the whole thing, but taking the chance to explain how safe it all is.

After being safely lowered, LaGrasso and Busch each received a hug from firefighters and an apology and gift certificate from Hartshorn. The lift will remain closed while an investigation takes place into the cause of the failure, he said.
To see the video Click here