An experienced pilot helped prevent loss of life when an electrical issue caused an attempted emergency landing last week at the Chautauqua County Airport at Jamestown.

But the aftermath of the crash could have been much worse were it not for the quick action of volunteer firefighters, county EMS crews and Jamestown firefighters. All told, in addition to the city and county crews, volunteers responded from Falconer, Stockton, Frewsburg, Kennedy, Busti, Cassadaga, Kiantone, Ellery Center, Lakewood, Ellington, Sinclairville, Fluvanna, Mayville, and Gerry.

That’s a heck of a response for a Monday morning. Noel Guttman, county emergency services director, said there was more than enough manpower and resources responding. Firefighting foam was quickly deployed to put out the fire caused by the crash, and other than getting water where it needed to be so pumper trucks could replenish their supplies there appeared to be few issues bringing the scene under control.

“From my position right now, what I saw today, things went very well and I can’t say enough about all our first responders in this part of the county,” said County Executive PJ Wendel.

We couldn’t agree more. First responders – paid and volunteer – came through with aplomb Monday.