David Dalrymple, a revered figure in the fire and emergency services community, passed away in 2024, leaving behind a legacy of dedication, innovation, and education. A native of New Jersey, Dalrymple devoted over four decades to emergency response, serving as a career EMS provider for Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital Emergency Medical Services in New Brunswick and as a volunteer firefighter, EMT, and rescue technician for Clinton EMS/Rescue in Clinton, NJ.
Dalrymple was best known for his expertise in vehicle extrication and transportation rescue. As the executive educator for RoadwayRescue LLC, he developed and delivered comprehensive training programs that emphasized safety, efficiency, and adaptability in rescue operations. His role as the education chair for the Transportation Emergency Rescue Committee–US (TERC–US) further showcased his commitment to advancing rescue education on a national scale.
An accomplished author, Dalrymple contributed significantly to the literature on fire and rescue operations. He penned the “Extrication Tactics” column for Fire Engineering magazine and authored the “Vehicle Extrication” chapter in Fire Engineering’s Handbook for Firefighter I and II (2009). His writings provided invaluable insights into the evolving challenges of modern vehicle extrication, particularly concerning hybrid and electric vehicles.
Dalrymple’s influence extended internationally through his participation in extrication challenges and educational programs. He served as an international-level extrication assessor, teaching and assessing in North America, Europe, the UK, and South Africa. His involvement in events like the International Extrication Challenge and the World Rescue Challenge facilitated the exchange of knowledge and best practices among rescue professionals worldwide.
In recognition of his contributions to rescue education, Dalrymple received the prestigious Harvey Grant award in 2007. He also served on the Society of Automotive Engineers (SAE) task force on hybrids and electric vehicles, focusing on first and second responder safety.
Beyond his professional achievements, Dalrymple was known for his unwavering commitment to the safety and well-being of both rescuers and victims. His teachings emphasized the importance of understanding vehicle structures, safety systems, and the need for continuous learning in the face of rapidly advancing automotive technologies.
David Dalrymple’s passing is a profound loss to the fire and emergency services community. His legacy endures through the countless individuals he trained, the lives saved through improved rescue techniques, and the ongoing advancements in emergency response education inspired by his work. He will be remembered not only for his expertise but also for his passion, dedication, and the indelible impact he made on the field of emergency services.
