John, as a Fire Chief in a small (middle of nowhere) town, I would like to suggest a couple of things. First, having an AED is great, but you need to know how to use it... You and Mercedes need to take a CPR class, where they teach the use of the AED. Second, with your location (being far from everything), I would suggest you set up a designated helicopter landing zone. You just need an open area with no surrounding wires or towers. Put a flag in the corner for wind direction, get the GPS coordinates and give them to the local FD/EMS group. These 2 things can save lives. Enjoy your videos. Be safe, stay healthy!
I agree, also get an AED cabinet and mount it in an obvious place in the welcome center or lobby so everyone sees it. That way they will remember where it is, you may not be present to tell them its in a closet somewhere.
going to be future safety issues out there in the boonies. Lots of new RV'ers are still new to RV'ing and not super handy so accidents will happen. When a new RV'er is someone whom has mostly worked in an office all his/her life, they may not necessarily be prepared for the dangers of RV'ing equipment handling.
I sometimes tell folks that after a long drive, if you're tired or fatigued at all, take a 20minute break and relax before unhitching. Grab a meal and wait until you can get your mind focused again.
Check List - YES!!!! No matter if I have done our setup/tear down dozens or hundreds of times I always follow the list STEP BY STEP every time, no short cuts allowed! Andy & Kim
Exactly!! I use this example with people: how many times do you travel and forget your toothbrush or phone charger? Same concept. You need a checklist for sure
You don’t need a check list to ALWAYS chalk wheels FIRST before ANYTHING else is done. My rv is stored on level ground and I STILL chalk the wheels ALWAYS
This is a positive video-Morell will heal. He is one tough man! Many lessons have been learned and thank you for sharing with us. It’s easy to forget how dangerous RV-ing can be.
Some 35 years ago, while I was in the Marine Reserves, one of my buddies while working at a paper processing company got his gloved hand caught and pulled into a milling machine. They had the safety tied up for faster production. So, he hit the emergency stop, but others had to get a wrench and hand crank the rollers backwards to get his hand out. He said it actually kind of looked like they show in cartoons where his hand looked like a piece of paper. But thank god we live in the times that we do. The doctors were able to repair his hand. And one year later he was competing in power lifting. Best wishes to Morrell for a speedy and full recovery.
Excellent job, guys! As a paramedic of 23 years, you acted quickly and appropriately. excellent points you were making about safety and keeping calm. It’s amazing how slowly minutes go by when you are waiting for an ambulance. Bravo. ( and this would make a great training scenario for a rescue squad - Although I’m surprised that the fire department didn’t make it there before the ambulance did.)
Thank goodness everyone was where they needed to be during this crisis. As for Morrell, he had a brief lapse of judgement at a critical moment. It doesn’t make him a “bad delivery driver” as I’ve read in some of the comments. There is absolutely no need to berate someone when they’re already suffering the consequences of their mistake. Please demonstrate the grace and mercy the RV Odd Squad members are best known for.
Total prayers for Morel. John, trying to pick that trailer up, knowing it was impossible was heroic nonetheless. Now I see what Mercedes sees in you. God is so good. Mercedes, girl, who needs to get to the fire department and get some first aid training? This will not be the last time something horrible happens like this as soon you will be inviting a whole slew of people up there, it's an accident casino just looking for a place to happen. John is going to need to know how to use a defibrillator too. Your whole squad should know. Peace be with you.
As a nurse, this still freaks me out. I would have wanted to lift it off his hand and arm also at first. Thank you Jesus that you had some heavy equipment and just enough room to get it under the landing gear. He is one tough man!!!!!!!
Even though it’s your RV the delivery driver should know the proper hooking and unhooking procedure as the person who is delivering it. You guys are not to blame.
When you go to a grocery store do you put your camera in the cashier's face and help them count your change? These people need to be charged criminally and sued
Brought tears to my eyes. Thank goodness it sounds Merrill will be ok. Prayers to he and his wife. God bless everyone and I hope Merrill and his wife will come and stay at your beautiful campground. ❤️🙏
Bless you both for doing all you could to help that poor man. Things happen in life, even to good people, and I'm very thankful you all are ok. The baby was outside, the dog was outside, John was very close to the RV and there it goes, all 14 tons of it, just rolling away. It could have been so much worse.
Holy cow! Thank goodness he's okay, your friend showed up so fast and you both were able to keep it together ❤ . Thank you so much for sharing such an important lesson. Just wow.
I’m a retired Truck Driver and this is why RVERS should have to read a book and pass a test to qualify for dealing with these big rigs. Of course mistakes can still happen after proper training but would be less likely.
@@davidmorse2149 yes I’m very aware of the Ego games many truck driver play out there on the road. There’s a few occasions that if I wasn’t a company driver I would’ve retaliated. I suspect some of the wrecks I saw out there was for that very reason.
Hey guys, Great job, all who were there! No matter how each of you thought you did, you all came together to make a team and save a life! My wife is a retired PD - Fire - 911 dispatcher, and I am a retired Fire and PD Tactical paramedic. We always hope that no one has to see the things we have, but know from experience how good folks can come together in times of need to do what has to be done. Bless all of you, and your "patient". ❤️🙏💕 OLT
I hope he recovers and has full use of his hand. I am glad you are all okay. It would be a good idea to have pa serious safety plan set in place and even submitting procedures in written form when new folks come to work and stay so all are on the same page. How frightening just to hear you guys relive this
As a retired emt. You never know how you will react in case of an emergency being untrained. However you did great. Can't wait for the updates. Best news he didn't lose his hand.
Having one person in charge is absolutely paramount! And I love my wife but I’ll still deal with the hassle of getting out of the truck to double check anything she does on the outside. One chief & and one lane!
You guys have over hundred videos..this is the most important one of all I have been pulling 5th wheels all my life we can all learn from this thank you 😊🙏💜
I am thrilled that this episode came out so well! I have to say this though with the utmost respect and love for you guys (if someone else has said this, please forgive me): Mercedes, from 1 woman to another, you have to learn as much as possible on how to do things there. I get it about pulling the rv. I am a truck driver and I will never do a 5th wheel! Lol. But when it comes to the other stuff around your rv park, you need to know as much as you can in order to be effective in case of an emergency. All the emergency equipment is great to have but if you don't know how to use it it's just a waste of money. And not only that, knowing how to do things in the event that John is either not there or busy doing something else is very empowering !!! Absolutely not trying to hurt someone's feelings and what I just said may be a great big duh from everyone, I needed to say it. Sage was a real trooper throughout the whole ordeal! I am so glad that everything turned out fine! Love you guys so much!! Maybe do some emergency drills too.
All I can say is, thank God John kept his cool during an intense situation! The quick thinking to get the wheels chalked saved him from having an amputated arm/fingers. No telling the outcome if the RV kept rolling off the back of the truck! We can take for granted that everyone takes the same precautions that we do, and this lesson shows everyone how fast the situation can change! The hand of the Lord was definitely there watching over your actions and responses to this situation!
Something similar to this happened to another RUclipsr about two years ago. That hitch in his truck bed needs to be replaced with the newer, safer ones that have safeguards for this kind of situation. Those fifth wheels take a special kind of person to be brave enough to handle them. You guys are a trip to watch. Cheers!
I’m glad that everyone is okay and that lessons were learned. I pray that you both realize that not only should you have safety equipment but it’s imperative that you both LEARN HOW TO USE IT! I could tell from your showing the AED and first aid kits that you know nothing about using it, so I highly recommend that when you can put off the rush to make videos and take first aid courses right away. I couldn’t believe that that poor man didn’t have anyone at least get him some ice or ice packs until the ambulance arrived. It would be a shame John if you needed that AED one day and Mercedes would be fumbling with how to use it and it would be too late for you. And maybe future visitors to your campground would appreciate that they would get intelligent first aid if needed since the hospital is so far away. It’s one thing to pray for people but sometimes we need to rely on the brain that God blessed us with.
You both handled it very well! Lots of fast thinking and problem solving. And Sage learned a lot too. Her hilarious play by play means she was processing everything and in the future she will be better equipped to handle emergencies. She will remain calm and act quickly because that’s what she saw her parents do. I can imagine her grabbing the nearest phone and calling 911. And she’s also going remember to stay clear of the rig when needed.
Wow. Just 😲! We are so sorry that this happened to everyone involved. Mistakes happen but when people get hurt, it really is horrible. We are glad he is okay and thankful you guys were able to keep your calm and minimize the damage. Please tell Morel we are praying for him. The RV can be fixed but life is precious 💕 When you come to Florida, let us know. You have been taking care of so many people, it is time you sit back and let us cook you a big meal and let you guys just sit back and relax ❤️ P. S. Morel is a tough son of a gun!
Thank GOD for John's quick thinking, the skid steer and the fact that the landing gear was high enough to get under. I have no idea what you would have done to get him out had the skid steer not been there. Quick thinking John. We pray that Morrell will have a complete healing and that lessons learned will of great value in the future.
I am so sorry this happened! All of you did the best and it showed! Accidents happen, but how they get resolved and handled show what you are made off. Mercedes and John, you are gold! Even little Sage held it together and showed inner spunk when all adults around her were under the highest stress. Better days to you and yes, a Florida vacation is not only deserved but recommended!
That was not an accident, John and Mercedes caused this, on purpose. Imagine you're a cashier at a store, John and Mercedes are your customers and they start reaching into your cash drawer and messing around in your work space. Are you going to be able to perform your job correctly? Morrell should sue these idiots and take their wealth
Most important RV Park etiquette, when people are setting up or packing up, just leave people alone and let them handle it, because there will be too much commotion at once. Anyways, with thousands of pounds from the 5th wheel resting on his arm, I'm glad he wasn't seriously hurt. No one's at fault. We all make mistakes. :)
God bless you all! I started tearing up crying over the situation! Thank you God that it wasn’t worse than this. The Lord was truly with you. He should have at least a week with his wife lol! I’m relieved his hand only had two broken fingers. I’m sure it was fatigue and maybe distraction too played a role. Hope your rig is in good shape. Take a long vacation in Florida you need and deserve it! Love you all! ❤️
The reality of a tired driver. If anyone is hurt ALWAYS have them sit down and apply ICE as well as elevate the arm/legs. Whatever is hurt. They may not want to SIT but at least until EMS arrives. My philosophy over the years has been my disaster recipe of 3. This fits the bill~~1-tired driver, 2-people involved not communicating with NEW situation, 3- Batteries, landing gear. Not working. So happy all is fine and will heal! Loads to learn for everyone that watches your channel. May GOD continue to bless you and your family and adventures !!
I was in EMS for 36 years and you guys did a pretty good job! You really need to take at least an EMT course in your position and the distance to your nearest hospital. Find out just what services you have available to you. Find out if you have First Responders close by, access to a helicopter. I worked in a rural area and helicopters are wonderful!
If your camper battery is dead you can hook the cable from the truck to the camper and the truck battery will supply power to lower the landing gear. When you stop chock the wheels, lower the landing gear and then adjust height to disconnect after all cables are disconnected, tail gate is down and hitch is pulled and released. Best to have a check list to follow when hooking up and disconnecting, it works for pilots and planes! USAF veteran and 5th wheel camper. Keep camping.😁
John, I have always admired you and Mercedes. However, this last episode puts my admiration for (both) of you at astronomical levels. Most people couldn’t handle an emergency with such rapid and clear thinking and success. You are, Indeed, The Man! (Just learn how to use the AED)
This is another reason I like the gooseball. I use the geny hitch. That hitch will not come out of that ball unless the feet are on the ground lifting the rv.
Wow, so hope everything works out for him. Having an AED is a huge asset and such a powerful tool to have especially being so far from an EMT responding. The best part of an AED is that they are smart and you can't hurt anyone with them! Obviously a class would be helpful but great job getting one in your inventory. I bought one a couple years ago so we would have one with us while we camp, more for other people but you never know.
As a paramedic for 35 years and retired now, I have to say that, John, you were spot on trying to remain calm. A few calls I have been on over the years where on the inside I was not calm but I tried to projected calmness. Calmness is contagious and spreads to those around you, just as panic does. So good job! As for all the first aid equipment on your property, I think that everyone working there should be familiar with what is there and how to use it. Maybe a first aid class would be beneficial to all there. The chief's comments below had good points to follow with the AED and the LZ (helicopter landing zone). Again, good job and I hope your injured friend, Morrell, is recovering well.
You guys are great!! Thank you for sharing this story. So many lessens, but you did your best! Emergencies have no room for everything going perfectly, but you guys were darn near perfect, under such great pressure!!! Amen!!🙏🏻🙏🏻👍🏻👍🏻👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻
Is one of the most heart wrenching, suspenseful, beautiful stories I've heard in a very long time... So incredibly happy everything turned out well and a new friend was made... Thanks for sharing this one!!
John, I know you're giving credit to others but you are the person who I would want there with me as you went into action and saved Morelle from further damage. Your reactions made the difference and Mercedes did everything she could to help and did an amazing job under all of this pressure. In the end, hope everyone learned valuable.lessons that safety always comes first and that he hopefully will be ok. God bless you all.
@@macbook802no the hell he didn’t. You are still trolling like some keyboard warrior. Well I can do the same. There is something mentally wrong with you.
I deliver RVs for a Living. 19yrs with Horizon Transport. 1st Off glad it all worked out. It's my responsibility to do everything when delivering. Apparently his 12 volt fuse was blown in the truck..That's why the battery wasn't charged. Like John said DO NOT RELEASE the Kingpin until landing gear is down and wheels chocked. God is Good
I've been an OTR driver for 28 years and been through some hairy situations and John was an all-star in a really bad situation! I believe he made the best out of a really bad incident. Kudos!!!
Great video, after watching this I am definitely going to show my wife how to set up the trailer so we are always in the same page. I am the one that is always doing the trailer and she watches the kids, but maybe it is a good idea to show her exactly what to do.. nice job glad everyone is okay
Yes you're wife needs to be fully competent with everything to do with hauling, setting up and tearing down the trailer rig. You never know when you might be in an emergency situation where you will need to rely on her being able to do everything, likely in an area that is largely unfamiliar to both of you. This dual training becomes even more important as the two of you grow older together. I recently saw another video where this scenario played out where the one partner became completely incapacitated in extreme pain and had to rely 100% on the other person doing everything, including making all the decisions. Quite the wake up call for everyone that a situation can go from normal to dire in a mere instant.
John, Mercedes…I and everyone else may have “taught” you over the years, but YOU have definitely shown or taught us all how to handle such a critical accident! My heart was racing just listening to you both describe what happened! You saved this man’s hand and arm, and maybe his life…quick thinking and the ability to utilize what you have around you to help save this man. Incredible. Also, there are so many people around who would really be more concerned with their fifth wheel, than saving this man’s hand…..you showed exactly who you are…loving, kind, generous people who truly care about others. Much love, and RESPECT, as-always, Virginia. (P.S. Give Sage a big hug for me!)
On my rig, I can plug in to shore power and run my landing gear. Disconnect/ connecting a rig is task that requires all your focus. It's actually good to see these videos, as it gives idea or feedback on what could have been done differently in this scenario. Enjoyed your videos. Merrell was very fortunate.
First and foremost, glad he is OK. You all handled the emergency perfectly. First step is call for assistance/911. Work the situation. One director working quickly and calmly. Hindsight, learn and prepare for the next emergency and pray it doesn’t happen. When I was ill at work, as my coworker was calling 911, I asked them to call my wife and that was all I could focus on. Thank you for sharing and have a blessed day.
Love how calm and cool you handled it Man, Mercedes was awesome and humble as well. You’ve made a life long friend with him now. God bless the damage wasn’t worse 🙏🏼
Y'all don't give yourself enough credit. Outstanding work whilst under pressure. I once saw the life drain out of a guys eyes whilst being crushed by an industrial sewing machine. So glad to see that Morrell is on the mend. Hard to do, but it's vital that you pause for a couple of seconds when rushing to help someone, make sure you are not putting yourself in danger as that will only exacerbate the situation. Stay blessed.
WOW, never a dull moment with you two. Everyday is either a lesson or a blessing, this day seems to be both. Hopefully you have a place to stay in Florida, it's difficult to find anything. I think everyone is here.
Morrell is such a trooper keeping a sense of humor about it all. Am sure he was mentally fatigued after the trip, and so ready to return home and get some rest. You guys were Amazing!!! This could have turned out so differently as we all know. Prayers for all of you & yours... 💛
Wow, thank God everything worked out as best as possible. Yeah, John be da man! I was surprised Morrell only had a couple of of his fingers injured. Bet he got some serious bruises also. Seems like you gained a life-long friend in Morrell. God blessed y'all...and be safe!
Wonderful to see things came out ok for the circumstances, hey don't be embarrassed for trying to pick up the front of that RV, it's just a natural reaction, in the early 70's I was riding down the highway with my father in Southern Florida, in front of us there was a pickup truck with a three-wheeler and some kids in the bed of the truck, in a blink of an eye the truck went off the highway and rolled over on top of those kids, my father ran up to that truck and picked it up high enough that the driver was able to pull them out from underneath it, being scared and adrenaline can make you do amazing things, I come across your videos every once and awhile and really enjoy them, great work guys, thank you
Might I suggest that you and a few key members get certified in Multimedia First Aid and CPR...and also in your renovations get a first aid or emergency triage area established...this is for your safety and your camper guests safety as well...👍
Oh my gosh! How scary for everyone involved. Thank you for posting, as it's a great reminder to stay focused during these critical steps. Praying for full recovery for Morrill 🙏🙏🙏
John, you are extremely quick thinking and a HERO!! You made every right decision very quickly. AWESOME! Morrel, you are TOUGH and dealt with this emergency and best possible way as well. Hog driver, way to respond and do as you needed to do! John wife, sorry I don’t know your name yet but you also did very important work and quickly as well as keeping your daughter safe. Well done all of you❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️
I think Morell and his wife need a complimentary stay at Thunder Canyon when you open. Morell if your reading this comment I work out in the West Suburbs of Chicago Plainfield area (Classic Towing). Been in the Towing business for about 15 years and you Sir are a testament to how strong we blue collar folks are. I've made mistakes in my 15 years of towing, damaged a couple bumpers here and there but most common thing they all had was being over tired. Sometimes when I'm on accident scenes in the middle of intersections carnage everywhere it's amazing how people act. I've had to scold people to get away from dangerous situations that could get them or myself hurt.
Things can go wrong very quickly. If you are ever in a similar situation, instead of using an unsecured post under the pin box, put wood or blocks under frame near your jack. That is a temporary, safer solution. So glad that Morrell is going to be okay.
Mercedes, I think you held it together remarkably well! In 2004, my then bf, now husband, had a tractor to turn over on him. I was the only witness & could not be seen from roadway. I always thought I was the one to stay calm in an emergency. But I fell twice, badly spraining my ankle, trying to get to him. Then the screaming, crying, praying, it was ridiculous, oh yeah, that was me, not him. 🤪 The adrenaline allowed me to hobble over rough terrain to meet the ambulance & rescuers. He had s crushed hip, broken collar bone, multiple contusions & he was the calm one. Lol!
You are the first couple I had watched that full time rv. It seems like you were in a van or had rented a van. It was very intriguing to me. Now About a year later my husband and I have sold our house and are living full time and loving it. Thanks for your honesty. What a blessing he is ok.
im praying for him -i worked for a road dept over 30 years and it only takes a second for something to go wrong if this video can educate one person on how to safely work around the trailer it will be a god send
So Thankful Morrell will be ok. I was in the heavy construction industry for 40 years, saw lots of very serious injuries including life altering. You guys reacted like superstars . We had lots and lots of training, procedures, rules and regs and still things happened . Procedures and checklist, CPR and emergency response is essential. You guys handled this very well. So happy Morrell will be ok. God Bless.
So very frightening! You are correct, terrible things can happen with fifth wheels. A friend of mine went to help a friend of his level a fifth wheel because of frost heave. He was a safety first man always. Unfortunately something happened that the rig slipped off the jacks while he was under the rig and he was crushed to death. I'm so glad your situation wasn't any worse than it was. Thanking God!!! And get familiar with your first aid gear asap. Having it and not knowing how to use it is the same as not having it. John, you for sure are the man! Don't know that I would have thought of doing what you did and the ambulance alone would not been able to have helped him. Super scary 😲😢🙏🙏🙏
Oh lordy me I'm so glad you explained the situation. Mercedes I'm sorry you had to deal with that, John you're a hero, Sage you're the best. Moreell I hope you heal real good sending you lots of love ❤️
Get a back window exit on the skid steer John. As long as that foot pad was off the ground you couldve dug it out more with your bare hands if you needed too. Adrenaline. Thank God for your skid steer and the forethought to use it. Amazing.
So many fantastic lessons. Completely re-thinking my 5th wheel disconnect safety scenarios. Glad the outcome was as good as it was. Thanks, from the Pacific Northwest (Seattle).
Never reach underneath a fifth wheel tongue when hooking or unhooking. I use to work with semis and my uncle was a truck driver and taught me a lot. You can use to a powerful battery charger to jump the battery enough to work the landing gear. I have done that. I am the calm person which is why I was picked for "first responder" training at the warehouse I was working at.
I'm a former paramedic and ER/ICU LVN, current Vent Nurse (LVN [Texas]) and AHA instructor. I wish we were closer so I could do CPR, First Aid and other classes with you and go over the AED and other stuff in detail with you. I'd do freebies. Y'all did well. The "hand off" thing on the phone is classic, definitely not uncommon miscommunication. We learned on the ambulance to never take dispatch information without a shaker of salt. "Difficulty breathing" was rigor mortis. A lacerated hand was an arm amputation..... you never know. Y'all did well. BTW, the AED will tell you step by step what to do, audibly. Some of them even start out with: "Remain calm....... ..... call 911." lol
So sorry this happened. The lesson? If multiple people are involved in an operation, then there needs to be a "lead" person, and absolute coordination. And a lesson I've learned from experience, be extra slow and cautious if you're fatigued. Good to hear the driver was not more seriously injured. Also, the manner in which the kingpin was supported was very precarious. Should have blocked the jacks. But understandable in the "heat of battle". Best to everyone.
I run a small rv transport business and the day my wife was with me on a move was a 5th wheel. I caught her ans the customer putting there hands on the rails as I'm trying to hook up and I jumped out and had educate them on never to put amy body parts in there. When you hook up a fifth wheel allways chalk the tires and never stack anything high up under front landing gear because even if the wheels are chocked and you go to hook up and you hit the king pin with force the trailer can go sideways and fall of blocks. Years ago here in socal. There was two guys hooking up a ffithwheel at a local dealer. One of the guys stuck his head amd neck in there as the guys backing up. The king pin was to low. So as he's backing up instead of locking in it hit and rolled back and crushed the guy. I allways preach safety when hooking up rvs. Always get put and look and check your unit 3 times before you leave and make sure everything is locked in
Number one I’m glad he’s OK but there’s so many things that he did wrong never ever reach your arm in over a truck that was one drop the tailgate number two number three don’t even start anything until you chalk your fifth wheel and the front landing gear that’s number one number two I’m sorry to say but he should’ve known better especially a person that’s delivering fifth wheels but I’m really glad he’s OK good video but I’ll have to say bad video and I say bad just because so many things were not done properly love you guys and great lesson to be learned for everybody out there ok 👌🏼🔥🤠🔥Camping Russ out PS you guys might wanna look into taking a major and minor first aid class it’s always a great thing to learn especially being owners of the RV park now
You are a great team in the heat of the battle. You have to realize you got help coming and you did a great job controlling the chaos. So lucky to have a skid steer, you two are heroes-moved fast and made it happen and at the end of the day that is all that counts.
You two are an awesome team. John, your level headless is amazing and if I ever get into a tight spot I hope you are around. Mercedes, you did a wonderful job. You kept it light and got the job done. God bless you both.
I am a retired firefighter (captain) and will say hindsight is always 20/20, but based on everyone's quick response you did a great job getting the 5th wheel weight off of the guys arm! Rarely does every emergency response from lay people react perfectly. In my opinion you guys reacted extremely well thinking of high-level decision-making priority!
So glad that everyone come out of this situation ok❤....Accident happen, but we must take our time when disconnecting.. You guys are good people, may God continue to bless you🙏🏾💐
I could feel your adrenaline pumping!!! Bless his heart❤️ Also, don't ever forget to chock your wheels!!! My husband unhooked his boat from his truck before chocking his wheels😮 He came very close to running into the fence that surrounds the swimming pool at the RV park. He tried to grab it and thankfully someone saw him and was able to help. He's been going to the chiropractor because he messed his back up😢.
Girl, know how to hook up and unhook your RV, I’ve showed my husband how to do the inside and he’s showed me how to do the outside, that way should something happen, we both know what to do with the entire camper! Since learning I’ve gone camping alone and only had to call him once the first time out. This is a VERY important thing to do….AFTER learning first aid & CPR with AED training.
Excellent video, and lessons for us all. Thank you for sharing the real life panic that occurs in a situation like this. You can talk about how things should be done, but when it goes wrong, no one can be totally prepared to do everything perfectly, although you were as close to perfect as you could possibly be. Thank you!
As a retired Fire Chief….a lot of rescues are improvise, adapt and overcome!! You have to think on your feet, and yes clear the scene!! Glad you were there John and that he’ll be ok. Back in the 1990’s I was at a campground that had a tractor flip over onto an employee!! We used those old bumper jacks to ratchet it up and off….at any given moment, anything can happen!!!
OUCH! Been down that road in my own stupid mistakes. Hope all ended well for him. Great points made. We actually have a set up list we follow, just for this reason. Great video. Thanks for sharing.
I’m glad everything worked out okay and Mark was there to help. Thank God! I just hope no legal actions occur after the fact. John you did everything you could in a tense situation. 💜💜
Welcome to over 30 years of my career. Periods of serenity interrupted by periods of adrenaline charged calls. Smart choice for early access to 9-1-1. In emergencies, deliberate and calm wins the game. You two did GREAT. The deadly potential for crushed compartment syndrome was high in this situation. As Mercedes said, time was of the essence. Some advice from a retired Firefighter/ Paramedic to you two future community managers; get CPR certified and consider taking an EMR (Emergency Medical Responder) course. I teach EMS now and can give you two all the info you need to get you on your way. Again…. I tip my cap to you two for a job well done!
I don’t know how y’all kept it together as well as you did. I fall apart in emergencies! But Sage was hilarious 😂, she cracked me up! John sprang into action & knew exactly what to do. I didn’t know that you guys were so close to where I live. I’m only about 10-15 minutes from Chattanooga, across the border into GA. I pray that Merelle is doing fine. He seemed to be as cool as a cucumber. I couldn’t get over how he went back to work like nothing happened, amazing. I believe that God was with all of you that day, especially when you think of how bad it could have been. May God continue to bless y’all and keep you in His loving care🛐🙏🏼🛐
Im glad everyone is ok. i also hope that your wife learns some of the terms at least. its important to be informed even if u dont do the un hitching. if ur hubby has a stroke or passes out from exhaustion youll need to no what to do. all in all you guys did a fantastic job!!! and ur shared it with us as a helpful tip and reminder lots of love from kansas
Well, that was real life! Good job under pressure. Morrell is one tough and amazing guy! Just a thought John…if the skid steer doesn’t already have a horn, I suggest you install one. Tough learning experience, but glad all turned out as well as can be expected.
Hey John, is there a way you can modify the back window of the Skid-steer to make an escape hatch? God forbid you would be in there and something like a fire happens.
This is an example of how quickly accidents happen, how debriefing the incident serves to educate one’s self on need assessment, and how transparency helps to educate others.
I managed landscape crews before we moved into our RV. If I ever had two crews heading to the same job that’s when obvious stuff got forgotten…like SHOVELS. The main tool. I think you’re right on about having two teams on site and no one in charge being a/the issue. Lesson learned here is to recognize that situation and clarify it to everyone. Thanks so much for sharing so we can all learn. You guys did great! I’ll say a prayer for Morrelle.
John, as a Fire Chief in a small (middle of nowhere) town, I would like to suggest a couple of things. First, having an AED is great, but you need to know how to use it... You and Mercedes need to take a CPR class, where they teach the use of the AED. Second, with your location (being far from everything), I would suggest you set up a designated helicopter landing zone. You just need an open area with no surrounding wires or towers. Put a flag in the corner for wind direction, get the GPS coordinates and give them to the local FD/EMS group. These 2 things can save lives. Enjoy your videos. Be safe, stay healthy!
I agree, also get an AED cabinet and mount it in an obvious place in the welcome center or lobby so everyone sees it. That way they will remember where it is, you may not be present to tell them its in a closet somewhere.
going to be future safety issues out there in the boonies. Lots of new RV'ers are still new to RV'ing and not super handy so accidents will happen. When a new RV'er is someone whom has mostly worked in an office all his/her life, they may not necessarily be prepared for the dangers of RV'ing equipment handling.
Those are excellent ideas! 👍
Also take a first responder course and perhaps a bls course.
Also when wherever you mount it, have signage outside building and on wall at mount. Prayers to you all.
I sometimes tell folks that after a long drive, if you're tired or fatigued at all, take a 20minute break and relax before unhitching. Grab a meal and wait until you can get your mind focused again.
Agreed! He was exhausted. He had picked the Rig up 2 am in Indiana the night before.
Great tip, thank you.
Thank you J. D.
Yes I went for a long drive today, then I went for a nap before going behind the wheel again.
Great advice!
Morrell seems like an amazing guy. Laughing and joking with those smashed fingers! What a sweet man. Prayers that his fingers heal totally.
He's incompetent at his job and nearly lost his arm.
@@jaygold4467 Really!!! OMG...
@@ElaineToombs Yeah really. Stupid is as stupid does.
@@jaygold4467 Yeah Forest! You sound like a teenage keyboard warrior with a lifetime of experience!
@@jaygold4467 no he isn't . It's two people doing a process as the wrong time
John saved his arm/hand, plain and simple! God bless John for his quick action and response!🙏🙏
Check List - YES!!!!
No matter if I have done our setup/tear down dozens or hundreds of times I always follow the list STEP BY STEP every time, no short cuts allowed!
Andy & Kim
Exactly!! I use this example with people: how many times do you travel and forget your toothbrush or phone charger? Same concept. You need a checklist for sure
You don’t need a check list to ALWAYS chalk wheels FIRST before ANYTHING else is done. My rv is stored on level ground and I STILL chalk the wheels ALWAYS
So grateful you are all okay ❤️
@Darwin Galletly
What’s that even about?
@@Fordgroup00 perfect you are then
This is a positive video-Morell will heal. He is one tough man! Many lessons have been learned and thank you for sharing with us. It’s easy to forget how dangerous RV-ing can be.
Some 35 years ago, while I was in the Marine Reserves, one of my buddies while working at a paper processing company got his gloved hand caught and pulled into a milling machine. They had the safety tied up for faster production. So, he hit the emergency stop, but others had to get a wrench and hand crank the rollers backwards to get his hand out. He said it actually kind of looked like they show in cartoons where his hand looked like a piece of paper. But thank god we live in the times that we do. The doctors were able to repair his hand. And one year later he was competing in power lifting. Best wishes to Morrell for a speedy and full recovery.
Excellent job, guys! As a paramedic of 23 years, you acted quickly and appropriately. excellent points you were making about safety and keeping calm. It’s amazing how slowly minutes go by when you are waiting for an ambulance. Bravo. ( and this would make a great training scenario for a rescue squad - Although I’m surprised that the fire department didn’t make it there before the ambulance did.)
Surprised Nancy Caroline didn’t put this scenario in the book 🤣
@@climber950 The scenario makes a great newbie drill.
Many rural departments are volunteer so it takes longer to respond.
They caused this 100 percent
This shows no matter how skilled a person is, accidents can and will happen. Was handled better than I could have! Great Job!!!
Thank goodness everyone was where they needed to be during this crisis. As for Morrell, he had a brief lapse of judgement at a critical moment. It doesn’t make him a “bad delivery driver” as I’ve read in some of the comments. There is absolutely no need to berate someone when they’re already suffering the consequences of their mistake. Please demonstrate the grace and mercy the RV Odd Squad members are best known for.
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Well said!
Amen Adrianne!
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@@RVOddCouple.
Total prayers for Morel. John, trying to pick that trailer up, knowing it was impossible was heroic nonetheless. Now I see what Mercedes sees in you. God is so good. Mercedes, girl, who needs to get to the fire department and get some first aid training? This will not be the last time something horrible happens like this as soon you will be inviting a whole slew of people up there, it's an accident casino just looking for a place to happen. John is going to need to know how to use a defibrillator too. Your whole squad should know. Peace be with you.
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And, TRUST ME, using an AED is WAY easier than performing CPR by hand. But you NEED to get certified.
As a nurse, this still freaks me out. I would have wanted to lift it off his hand and arm also at first. Thank you Jesus that you had some heavy equipment and just enough room to get it under the landing gear. He is one tough man!!!!!!!
Even though it’s your RV the delivery driver should know the proper hooking and unhooking procedure as the person who is delivering it. You guys are not to blame.
They are 100 percent the blame
When you go to a grocery store do you put your camera in the cashier's face and help them count your change? These people need to be charged criminally and sued
@@macbook802maybe you need to go to the grocery store to get something to eat because you are a fool to think they did anything wrong
@@macbook802no the hell they are not.
Brought tears to my eyes. Thank goodness it sounds Merrill will be ok. Prayers to he and his wife. God bless everyone and I hope Merrill and his wife will come and stay at your beautiful campground. ❤️🙏
Bless you both for doing all you could to help that poor man. Things happen in life, even to good people, and I'm very thankful you all are ok. The baby was outside, the dog was outside, John was very close to the RV and there it goes, all 14 tons of it, just rolling away. It could have been so much worse.
You guys did a wonderful job saving that man's hand.
Holy cow! Thank goodness he's okay, your friend showed up so fast and you both were able to keep it together ❤ . Thank you so much for sharing such an important lesson. Just wow.
I’m a retired Truck Driver and this is why RVERS should have to read a book and pass a test to qualify for dealing with these big rigs. Of course mistakes can still happen after proper training but would be less likely.
@@jeanieg9856 I love when I GET THE QUESTION IF i NEED a CDL or such to drive ...and I say...but there should be!!!!!!!!!
@@davidmorse2149 yes I’m very aware of the Ego games many truck driver play out there on the road. There’s a few occasions that if I wasn’t a company driver I would’ve retaliated. I suspect some of the wrecks I saw out there was for that very reason.
Hey guys, Great job, all who were there! No matter how each of you thought you did, you all came together to make a team and save a life! My wife is a retired PD - Fire - 911 dispatcher, and I am a retired Fire and PD Tactical paramedic. We always hope that no one has to see the things we have, but know from experience how good folks can come together in times of need to do what has to be done. Bless all of you, and your "patient". ❤️🙏💕 OLT
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I hope he recovers and has full use of his hand. I am glad you are all okay. It would be a good idea to have pa serious safety plan set in place and even submitting procedures in written form when new folks come to work and stay so all are on the same page. How frightening just to hear you guys relive this
As a retired emt. You never know how you will react in case of an emergency being untrained. However you did great. Can't wait for the updates. Best news he didn't lose his hand.
Having one person in charge is absolutely paramount! And I love my wife but I’ll still deal with the hassle of getting out of the truck to double check anything she does on the outside.
One chief & and one lane!
You guys have over hundred videos..this is the most important one of all I have been pulling 5th wheels all my life we can all learn from this thank you 😊🙏💜
I am thrilled that this episode came out so well! I have to say this though with the utmost respect and love for you guys (if someone else has said this, please forgive me): Mercedes, from 1 woman to another, you have to learn as much as possible on how to do things there. I get it about pulling the rv. I am a truck driver and I will never do a 5th wheel! Lol. But when it comes to the other stuff around your rv park, you need to know as much as you can in order to be effective in case of an emergency. All the emergency equipment is great to have but if you don't know how to use it it's just a waste of money. And not only that, knowing how to do things in the event that John is either not there or busy doing something else is very empowering !!! Absolutely not trying to hurt someone's feelings and what I just said may be a great big duh from everyone, I needed to say it. Sage was a real trooper throughout the whole ordeal! I am so glad that everything turned out fine! Love you guys so much!! Maybe do some emergency drills too.
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All I can say is, thank God John kept his cool during an intense situation! The quick thinking to get the wheels chalked saved him from having an amputated arm/fingers. No telling the outcome if the RV kept rolling off the back of the truck! We can take for granted that everyone takes the same precautions that we do, and this lesson shows everyone how fast the situation can change! The hand of the Lord was definitely there watching over your actions and responses to this situation!
Something similar to this happened to another RUclipsr about two years ago. That hitch in his truck bed needs to be replaced with the newer, safer ones that have safeguards for this kind of situation. Those fifth wheels take a special kind of person to be brave enough to handle them. You guys are a trip to watch. Cheers!
I’m glad that everyone is okay and that lessons were learned. I pray that you both realize that not only should you have safety equipment but it’s imperative that you both LEARN HOW TO USE IT! I could tell from your showing the AED and first aid kits that you know nothing about using it, so I highly recommend that when you can put off the rush to make videos and take first aid courses right away. I couldn’t believe that that poor man didn’t have anyone at least get him some ice or ice packs until the ambulance arrived. It would be a shame John if you needed that AED one day and Mercedes would be fumbling with how to use it and it would be too late for you. And maybe future visitors to your campground would appreciate that they would get intelligent first aid if needed since the hospital is so far away. It’s one thing to pray for people but sometimes we need to rely on the brain that God blessed us with.
You both handled it very well! Lots of fast thinking and problem solving. And Sage learned a lot too. Her hilarious play by play means she was processing everything and in the future she will be better equipped to handle emergencies. She will remain calm and act quickly because that’s what she saw her parents do. I can imagine her grabbing the nearest phone and calling 911. And she’s also going remember to stay clear of the rig when needed.
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Wow. Just 😲! We are so sorry that this happened to everyone involved. Mistakes happen but when people get hurt, it really is horrible. We are glad he is okay and thankful you guys were able to keep your calm and minimize the damage. Please tell Morel we are praying for him. The RV can be fixed but life is precious 💕 When you come to Florida, let us know. You have been taking care of so many people, it is time you sit back and let us cook you a big meal and let you guys just sit back and relax ❤️ P. S. Morel is a tough son of a gun!
Thank GOD for John's quick thinking, the skid steer and the fact that the landing gear was high enough to get under. I have no idea what you would have done to get him out had the skid steer not been there. Quick thinking John. We pray that Morrell will have a complete healing and that lessons learned will of great value in the future.
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I am so sorry this happened! All of you did the best and it showed! Accidents happen, but how they get resolved and handled show what you are made off. Mercedes and John, you are gold! Even little Sage held it together and showed inner spunk when all adults around her were under the highest stress. Better days to you and yes, a Florida vacation is not only deserved but recommended!
That was not an accident, John and Mercedes caused this, on purpose. Imagine you're a cashier at a store, John and Mercedes are your customers and they start reaching into your cash drawer and messing around in your work space. Are you going to be able to perform your job correctly? Morrell should sue these idiots and take their wealth
Most important RV Park etiquette, when people are setting up or packing up, just leave people alone and let them handle it, because there will be too much commotion at once.
Anyways, with thousands of pounds from the 5th wheel resting on his arm, I'm glad he wasn't seriously hurt. No one's at fault. We all make mistakes. :)
Best comment!
I love your honesty and candid talk!!
(Edit: Glad Morell is "okay"!)
Maurell is ok
God bless you all! I started tearing up crying over the situation! Thank you God that it wasn’t worse than this. The Lord was truly with you. He should have at least a week with his wife lol! I’m relieved his hand only had two broken fingers. I’m sure it was fatigue and maybe distraction too played a role. Hope your rig is in good shape. Take a long vacation in Florida you need and deserve it! Love you all! ❤️
The reality of a tired driver. If anyone is hurt ALWAYS have them sit down and apply ICE as well as elevate the arm/legs. Whatever is hurt. They may not want to SIT but at least until EMS arrives. My philosophy over the years has been my disaster recipe of 3. This fits the bill~~1-tired driver, 2-people involved not communicating with NEW situation, 3- Batteries, landing gear. Not working. So happy all is fine and will heal! Loads to learn for everyone that watches your channel. May GOD continue to bless you and your family and adventures !!
I was in EMS for 36 years and you guys did a pretty good job! You really need to take at least an EMT course in your position and the distance to your nearest hospital. Find out just what services you have available to you. Find out if you have First Responders close by, access to a helicopter. I worked in a rural area and helicopters are wonderful!
We are looking for training for everyone
That AED needs to be mounted in a spot where it's easily accessible, not in a cupboard.
If your camper battery is dead you can hook the cable from the truck to the camper and the truck battery will supply power to lower the landing gear.
When you stop chock the wheels, lower the landing gear and then adjust height to disconnect after all cables are disconnected, tail gate is down and hitch is pulled and released.
Best to have a check list to follow when hooking up and disconnecting, it works for pilots and planes! USAF veteran and 5th wheel camper. Keep camping.😁
John, I have always admired you and Mercedes. However, this last episode puts my admiration for (both) of you at astronomical levels. Most people couldn’t handle an emergency with such rapid and clear thinking and success. You are,
Indeed, The Man! (Just learn how to use the AED)
❤️❤️❤️ We are all signed up for certification and training before we open this Spring. Thank you Len
This is another reason I like the gooseball. I use the geny hitch. That hitch will not come out of that ball unless the feet are on the ground lifting the rv.
Wow, so hope everything works out for him. Having an AED is a huge asset and such a powerful tool to have especially being so far from an EMT responding. The best part of an AED is that they are smart and you can't hurt anyone with them! Obviously a class would be helpful but great job getting one in your inventory. I bought one a couple years ago so we would have one with us while we camp, more for other people but you never know.
We all will be getting training
As a paramedic for 35 years and retired now, I have to say that, John, you were spot on trying to remain calm. A few calls I have been on over the years where on the inside I was not calm but I tried to projected calmness. Calmness is contagious and spreads to those around you, just as panic does. So good job! As for all the first aid equipment on your property, I think that everyone working there should be familiar with what is there and how to use it. Maybe a first aid class would be beneficial to all there. The chief's comments below had good points to follow with the AED and the LZ (helicopter landing zone). Again, good job and I hope your injured friend, Morrell, is recovering well.
Thank you Jim
You guys are great!! Thank you for sharing this story. So many lessens, but you did your best! Emergencies have no room for everything going perfectly, but you guys were darn near perfect, under such great pressure!!! Amen!!🙏🏻🙏🏻👍🏻👍🏻👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻
Thank you Gail ❤️❤️❤️
Is one of the most heart wrenching, suspenseful, beautiful stories I've heard in a very long time... So incredibly happy everything turned out well and a new friend was made... Thanks for sharing this one!!
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John, I know you're giving credit to others but you are the person who I would want there with me as you went into action and saved Morelle from further damage. Your reactions made the difference and Mercedes did everything she could to help and did an amazing job under all of this pressure. In the end, hope everyone learned valuable.lessons that safety always comes first and that he hopefully will be ok. God bless you all.
God Bless you as well Daniel
John literally caused it
@@macbook802no the hell he didn’t. You are still trolling like some keyboard warrior. Well I can do the same. There is something mentally wrong with you.
I deliver RVs for a Living. 19yrs with Horizon Transport. 1st Off glad it all worked out. It's my responsibility to do everything when delivering. Apparently his 12 volt fuse was blown in the truck..That's why the battery wasn't charged. Like John said DO NOT RELEASE the Kingpin until landing gear is down and wheels chocked. God is Good
You guys did the BEST job you could under the circumstances. It's SO hard to deal with emergency situations, but you both acted wisely. Wow!
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I've been an OTR driver for 28 years and been through some hairy situations and John was an all-star in a really bad situation! I believe he made the best out of a really bad incident. Kudos!!!
Great video, after watching this I am definitely going to show my wife how to set up the trailer so we are always in the same page. I am the one that is always doing the trailer and she watches the kids, but maybe it is a good idea to show her exactly what to do.. nice job glad everyone is okay
Yes you're wife needs to be fully competent with everything to do with hauling, setting up and tearing down the trailer rig. You never know when you might be in an emergency situation where you will need to rely on her being able to do everything, likely in an area that is largely unfamiliar to both of you. This dual training becomes even more important as the two of you grow older together. I recently saw another video where this scenario played out where the one partner became completely incapacitated in extreme pain and had to rely 100% on the other person doing everything, including making all the decisions. Quite the wake up call for everyone that a situation can go from normal to dire in a mere instant.
John, Mercedes…I and everyone else may have “taught” you over the years, but YOU have definitely shown or taught us all how to handle such a critical accident! My heart was racing just listening to you both describe what happened! You saved this man’s hand and arm, and maybe his life…quick thinking and the ability to utilize what you have around you to help save this man. Incredible. Also, there are so many people around who would really be more concerned with their fifth wheel, than saving this man’s hand…..you showed exactly who you are…loving, kind, generous people who truly care about others. Much love, and RESPECT, as-always, Virginia. (P.S. Give Sage a big hug for me!)
🙏❤️🙏❤️🙏❤️🙏❤️🙏❤️🙏❤️🙏 Love you Virginia
On my rig, I can plug in to shore power and run my landing gear. Disconnect/ connecting a rig is task that requires all your focus. It's actually good to see these videos, as it gives idea or feedback on what could have been done differently in this scenario. Enjoyed your videos. Merrell was very fortunate.
First and foremost, glad he is OK. You all handled the emergency perfectly. First step is call for assistance/911. Work the situation. One director working quickly and calmly. Hindsight, learn and prepare for the next emergency and pray it doesn’t happen. When I was ill at work, as my coworker was calling 911, I asked them to call my wife and that was all I could focus on. Thank you for sharing and have a blessed day.
Love how calm and cool you handled it Man, Mercedes was awesome and humble as well. You’ve made a life long friend with him now. God bless the damage wasn’t worse 🙏🏼
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Y'all don't give yourself enough credit.
Outstanding work whilst under pressure.
I once saw the life drain out of a guys eyes whilst being crushed by an industrial sewing machine.
So glad to see that Morrell is on the mend.
Hard to do, but it's vital that you pause for a couple of seconds when rushing to help someone, make sure you are not putting
yourself in danger as that will only exacerbate the situation.
Stay blessed.
WOW, never a dull moment with you two. Everyday is either a lesson or a blessing, this day seems to be both. Hopefully you have a place to stay in Florida, it's difficult to find anything. I think everyone is here.
Life happens for us, not to us🙏❤️🙏❤️🙏
Morrell is such a trooper keeping a sense of humor about it all. Am sure he was mentally fatigued after the trip, and so ready to return home and get some rest. You guys were Amazing!!! This could have turned out so differently as we all know. Prayers for all of you & yours... 💛
Wow, thank God everything worked out as best as possible.
Yeah, John be da man!
I was surprised Morrell only had a couple of of his fingers injured. Bet he got some serious bruises also.
Seems like you gained a life-long friend in Morrell. God blessed y'all...and be safe!
Wonderful to see things came out ok for the circumstances, hey don't be embarrassed for trying to pick up the front of that RV, it's just a natural reaction, in the early 70's I was riding down the highway with my father in Southern Florida, in front of us there was a pickup truck with a three-wheeler and some kids in the bed of the truck, in a blink of an eye the truck went off the highway and rolled over on top of those kids, my father ran up to that truck and picked it up high enough that the driver was able to pull them out from underneath it, being scared and adrenaline can make you do amazing things, I come across your videos every once and awhile and really enjoy them, great work guys, thank you
Might I suggest that you and a few key members get certified in Multimedia First Aid and CPR...and also in your renovations get a first aid or emergency triage area established...this is for your safety and your camper guests safety as well...👍
Oh my gosh! How scary for everyone involved. Thank you for posting, as it's a great reminder to stay focused during these critical steps. Praying for full recovery for Morrill 🙏🙏🙏
WOW! No one should have to go through that kind of an emergency. You guys did good!
John, you are extremely quick thinking and a HERO!!
You made every right decision very quickly. AWESOME!
Morrel, you are TOUGH and dealt with this emergency and best possible way as well.
Hog driver, way to respond and do as you needed to do!
John wife, sorry I don’t know your name yet but you also did very important work and quickly as well as keeping your daughter safe.
Well done all of you❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️
Thankful to God for watching over the situation and great job all , you all did wonderful given the stress of it. Glad Morrell is doing ok 🙏👍❤️
I think Morell and his wife need a complimentary stay at Thunder Canyon when you open. Morell if your reading this comment I work out in the West Suburbs of Chicago Plainfield area (Classic Towing). Been in the Towing business for about 15 years and you Sir are a testament to how strong we blue collar folks are. I've made mistakes in my 15 years of towing, damaged a couple bumpers here and there but most common thing they all had was being over tired. Sometimes when I'm on accident scenes in the middle of intersections carnage everywhere it's amazing how people act. I've had to scold people to get away from dangerous situations that could get them or myself hurt.
We have already offered them a 2 week stay
Things can go wrong very quickly. If you are ever in a similar situation, instead of using an unsecured post under the pin box, put wood or blocks under frame near your jack. That is a temporary, safer solution. So glad that Morrell is going to be okay.
Mercedes, I think you held it together remarkably well! In 2004, my then bf, now husband, had a tractor to turn over on him. I was the only witness & could not be seen from roadway. I always thought I was the one to stay calm in an emergency. But I fell twice, badly spraining my ankle, trying to get to him. Then the screaming, crying, praying, it was ridiculous, oh yeah, that was me, not him. 🤪 The adrenaline allowed me to hobble over rough terrain to meet the ambulance & rescuers. He had s crushed hip, broken collar bone, multiple contusions & he was the calm one. Lol!
You are the first couple I had watched that full time rv. It seems like you were in a van or had rented a van. It was very intriguing to me. Now About a year later my husband and I have sold our house and are living full time and loving it. Thanks for your honesty. What a blessing he is ok.
im praying for him -i worked for a road dept over 30 years and it only takes a second for something to go wrong
if this video can educate one person on how to safely work around the trailer it will be a god send
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So Thankful Morrell will be ok. I was in the heavy construction industry for 40 years, saw lots of very serious injuries including life altering. You guys reacted like superstars . We had lots and lots of training, procedures, rules and regs and still things happened .
Procedures and checklist, CPR and emergency response is essential.
You guys handled this very well.
So happy Morrell will be ok. God Bless.
God Bless you as well Anthony 🙏❤️🙏❤️🙏
Sometimes, its best to keep things connected, sleep, and wait till your alert enough to unhook everything.
Chock, Chock, Chock!
So very frightening! You are correct, terrible things can happen with fifth wheels. A friend of mine went to help a friend of his level a fifth wheel because of frost heave. He was a safety first man always. Unfortunately something happened that the rig slipped off the jacks while he was under the rig and he was crushed to death. I'm so glad your situation wasn't any worse than it was. Thanking God!!! And get familiar with your first aid gear asap. Having it and not knowing how to use it is the same as not having it. John, you for sure are the man! Don't know that I would have thought of doing what you did and the ambulance alone would not been able to have helped him. Super scary 😲😢🙏🙏🙏
Oh lordy me I'm so glad you explained the situation. Mercedes I'm sorry you had to deal with that, John you're a hero, Sage you're the best. Moreell I hope you heal real good sending you lots of love ❤️
Get a back window exit on the skid steer John. As long as that foot pad was off the ground you couldve dug it out more with your bare hands if you needed too. Adrenaline. Thank God for your skid steer and the forethought to use it. Amazing.
I found the escape hatch 👍
So many fantastic lessons. Completely re-thinking my 5th wheel disconnect safety scenarios. Glad the outcome was as good as it was. Thanks, from the Pacific Northwest (Seattle).
Happy to help Tim
Never reach underneath a fifth wheel tongue when hooking or unhooking. I use to work with semis and my uncle was a truck driver and taught me a lot. You can use to a powerful battery charger to jump the battery enough to work the landing gear. I have done that. I am the calm person which is why I was picked for "first responder" training at the warehouse I was working at.
Oh my!! My heart is pounding just watching this...thank God everything turned out as well as it did!
I'm a former paramedic and ER/ICU LVN, current Vent Nurse (LVN [Texas]) and AHA instructor. I wish we were closer so I could do CPR, First Aid and other classes with you and go over the AED and other stuff in detail with you. I'd do freebies. Y'all did well. The "hand off" thing on the phone is classic, definitely not uncommon miscommunication. We learned on the ambulance to never take dispatch information without a shaker of salt. "Difficulty breathing" was rigor mortis. A lacerated hand was an arm amputation..... you never know.
Y'all did well. BTW, the AED will tell you step by step what to do, audibly. Some of them even start out with: "Remain calm....... ..... call 911." lol
Thank you for this ❤️ We all will be trained and certified by our opening in the spring. Hope we cross paths with you one day 🙂
@@RVOddCouple Me too! Especially if there is an area that bikers or other traveling tent-tossers can set up while passing through. Blessings your way.
So sorry this happened. The lesson? If multiple people are involved in an operation, then there needs to be a "lead" person, and absolute coordination.
And a lesson I've learned from experience, be extra slow and cautious if you're fatigued.
Good to hear the driver was not more seriously injured.
Also, the manner in which the kingpin was supported was very precarious. Should have blocked the jacks. But understandable in the "heat of battle".
Best to everyone.
I run a small rv transport business and the day my wife was with me on a move was a 5th wheel. I caught her ans the customer putting there hands on the rails as I'm trying to hook up and I jumped out and had educate them on never to put amy body parts in there. When you hook up a fifth wheel allways chalk the tires and never stack anything high up under front landing gear because even if the wheels are chocked and you go to hook up and you hit the king pin with force the trailer can go sideways and fall of blocks. Years ago here in socal. There was two guys hooking up a ffithwheel at a local dealer. One of the guys stuck his head amd neck in there as the guys backing up. The king pin was to low. So as he's backing up instead of locking in it hit and rolled back and crushed the guy. I allways preach safety when hooking up rvs. Always get put and look and check your unit 3 times before you leave and make sure everything is locked in
Number one I’m glad he’s OK but there’s so many things that he did wrong never ever reach your arm in over a truck that was one drop the tailgate number two number three don’t even start anything until you chalk your fifth wheel and the front landing gear that’s number one number two I’m sorry to say but he should’ve known better especially a person that’s delivering fifth wheels but I’m really glad he’s OK good video but I’ll have to say bad video and I say bad just because so many things were not done properly love you guys and great lesson to be learned for everybody out there ok 👌🏼🔥🤠🔥Camping Russ out PS you guys might wanna look into taking a major and minor first aid class it’s always a great thing to learn especially being owners of the RV park now
You are a great team in the heat of the battle. You have to realize you got help coming and you did a great job controlling the chaos. So lucky to have a skid steer, you two are heroes-moved fast and made it happen and at the end of the day that is all that counts.
You two are an awesome team. John, your level headless is amazing and if I ever get into a tight spot I hope you are around. Mercedes, you did a wonderful job. You kept it light and got the job done. God bless you both.
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I am a retired firefighter (captain) and will say hindsight is always 20/20, but based on everyone's quick response you did a great job getting the 5th wheel weight off of the guys arm! Rarely does every emergency response from lay people react perfectly. In my opinion you guys reacted extremely well thinking of high-level decision-making priority!
So glad that everyone come out of this situation ok❤....Accident happen, but we must take our time when disconnecting.. You guys are good people, may God continue to bless you🙏🏾💐
God Bless you as well Elaine🙏❤️🙏❤️🙏
I could feel your adrenaline pumping!!! Bless his heart❤️
Also, don't ever forget to chock your wheels!!! My husband unhooked his boat from his truck before chocking his wheels😮 He came very close to running into the fence that surrounds the swimming pool at the RV park. He tried to grab it and thankfully someone saw him and was able to help. He's been going to the chiropractor because he messed his back up😢.
So happy he is okay, you guys are awesome. Quick thinking on John’s part, and Mercedes did a great job as well.
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Girl, know how to hook up and unhook your RV, I’ve showed my husband how to do the inside and he’s showed me how to do the outside, that way should something happen, we both know what to do with the entire camper! Since learning I’ve gone camping alone and only had to call him once the first time out. This is a VERY important thing to do….AFTER learning first aid & CPR with AED training.
Excellent video, and lessons for us all. Thank you for sharing the real life panic that occurs in a situation like this. You can talk about how things should be done, but when it goes wrong, no one can be totally prepared to do everything perfectly, although you were as close to perfect as you could possibly be. Thank you!
Thank you John. Hoping it helps a few
Prior proper planning ,this could of been way worse ,but yes training and step by step matters
As a retired Fire Chief….a lot of rescues are improvise, adapt and overcome!! You have to think on your feet, and yes clear the scene!! Glad you were there John and that he’ll be ok. Back in the 1990’s I was at a campground that had a tractor flip over onto an employee!! We used those old bumper jacks to ratchet it up and off….at any given moment, anything can happen!!!
Thank you
OUCH! Been down that road in my own stupid mistakes. Hope all ended well for him. Great points made. We actually have a set up list we follow, just for this reason. Great video. Thanks for sharing.
Of all the shoulda coulda woulda's that could have been worse more blessings had by all prevailed. Praise be. God bless you all, be well Morell.
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I’m glad everything worked out okay and Mark was there to help. Thank God! I just hope no legal actions occur after the fact. John you did everything you could in a tense situation. 💜💜
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Cool! When Mercedes says ; You’re the men! Love it
She surprised me
Welcome to over 30 years of my career. Periods of serenity interrupted by periods of adrenaline charged calls. Smart choice for early access to 9-1-1.
In emergencies, deliberate and calm wins the game. You two did GREAT. The deadly potential for crushed compartment syndrome was high in this situation. As Mercedes said, time was of the essence.
Some advice from a retired Firefighter/ Paramedic to you two future community managers; get CPR certified and consider taking an EMR (Emergency Medical Responder) course. I teach EMS now and can give you two all the info you need to get you on your way.
Again…. I tip my cap to you two for a job well done!
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I don’t know how y’all kept it together as well as you did. I fall apart in emergencies! But Sage was hilarious 😂, she cracked me up! John sprang into action & knew exactly what to do.
I didn’t know that you guys were so close to where I live. I’m only about 10-15 minutes from Chattanooga, across the border into GA.
I pray that Merelle is doing fine. He seemed to be as cool as a cucumber. I couldn’t get over how he went back to work like nothing happened, amazing. I believe that God was with all of you that day, especially when you think of how bad it could have been.
May God continue to bless y’all and keep you in His loving care🛐🙏🏼🛐
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Im glad everyone is ok. i also hope that your wife learns some of the terms at least. its important to be informed even if u dont do the un hitching. if ur hubby has a stroke or passes out from exhaustion youll need to no what to do. all in all you guys did a fantastic job!!! and ur shared it with us as a helpful tip and reminder lots of love from kansas
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He was bless when it happen, remained calm when talking to emergency systems.
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Well, that was real life! Good job under pressure. Morrell is one tough and amazing guy! Just a thought John…if the skid steer doesn’t already have a horn, I suggest you install one. Tough learning experience, but glad all turned out as well as can be expected.
The fact that you knew how to operate a skid-steer was a blessing. Those machines are not something just anyone can hop in and drive.
Hey John, is there a way you can modify the back window of the Skid-steer to make an escape hatch? God forbid you would be in there and something like a fire happens.
There is an escape hatch on the machines that have full cabs, usually out the back of the cab.
And I think it needs a horn. Anything similar to this situation it would really have helped. Thankfully morel made it with just those injuries.
This is an example of how quickly accidents happen, how debriefing the incident serves to educate one’s self on need assessment, and how transparency helps to educate others.
Hoping that we helped a few Bob 👍
Consider putting some kind of a horn in the skid steerer. .
I managed landscape crews before we moved into our RV. If I ever had two crews heading to the same job that’s when obvious stuff got forgotten…like SHOVELS. The main tool. I think you’re right on about having two teams on site and no one in charge being a/the issue. Lesson learned here is to recognize that situation and clarify it to everyone. Thanks so much for sharing so we can all learn. You guys did great! I’ll say a prayer for Morrelle.