A tree worker who lost consciousness and became suspended upside down in a makeshift harness was successfully rescued by DeLand firefighters on Thursday.

According to a media release from the DeLand Fire Department, crews responded to a medical emergency on South Salisbury Avenue on Thursday, July 16, in reference to an individual losing consciousness while performing tree work.

DeLand firefighters responded to the incident location on South Salisbury Avenue after receiving reports that a tree worker had lost consciousness. (Photo: DeLand Fire Department)
DeLand firefighters responded to the incident location on South Salisbury Avenue after receiving reports that a tree worker had lost consciousness. (Photo: DeLand Fire Department)

Upon arriving at the scene, firefighters rapidly deployed an aerial ladder to reach the man who was suspended upside down. Rescuers reportedly observed that the man was wearing a homemade harness that appeared to be at risk of failing.

While the man remained unresponsive, emergency crews immediately secured him using a rope harness to prevent a potentially dangerous fall.

The unconscious man was secured in a rope harness before DeLand firefighters safely removed him from the tree. (Photo: DeLand Fire Department)
The unconscious man was secured in a rope harness before DeLand firefighters safely removed him from the tree. (Photo: DeLand Fire Department)

Firefighters successfully removed the man from the tree and lowered him to awaiting emergency medical services personnel. Following an on-scene medical evaluation, the man was transported to a local hospital by a family member.

The DeLand Fire Department credited the safe outcome of the incident to the professionalism, teamwork, and quick decision-making of its crew members.