Episode 265: Longview TX Fire Department Respond to a Hot Air Balloon Stuck in a Tower

In this episode of The Real ResQ Podcast, Jason sits down with the Longview Fire Department crew The team responded to what quickly became one of the most complex high-angle rescues in recent memory. From the moment the call came in, the situation was evolving. Limited information, rapidly changing conditions, and the realization that this was going to require everything they had. What followed was a race against time as firefighters began a grueling climb that would take over an hour just to reach the victims, all while a massive balloon canopy whipped in the wind, threatening to tear free at any moment.This episode takes you deep inside the operation. From the incident command decisions on the ground, to the physical and mental grind of climbing nearly 900 feet, to the delicate, high-risk process of getting two survivors out of that basket, onto the tower and lowered to the ground. You’ll hear how critical communication, both within the team and directly with the victims, helped hold everything together. Plus how training, experience, and trust allowed this crew to solve a problem no one truly prepares for.This isn’t just a story about a dramatic rescue. It’s about what happens when preparation meets the unpredictable. When the call comes in that you can’t script, can’t simulate, and can’t avoid—you show up anyway and do your job. Enjoy![Link to debrief]Thank you for sponsoring this episode of The Real ResQ: READYBAR https://getreadybar.com/ get 10% off your order with the discount code RESQ10.IPSQA https://ipsqa.com/We also have some amazing companies supporting The Real ResQ. These brands offer you exclusive discounts when you use our code, and when you do, you’re helping to support the show. To check out the full list of these supportive brands and the deals they offer, head over to TheRealResQ.com.Follow The Real ResQ for all updates on Facebook, Instagram or visit TheRealResQ.com