‘Jaws of Life’ extrication training for local firefighters

Municipal fire tax dollars were used to replace outdated and inadequate equipment with authentic Hurst cutters, spreaders, rams and air bags totaling $42 000.

Fire chief Roy Mullen said that the all day training session was essential in learning how to effectively use the new ‘Jaws of Life’.

“We have purchased the best extricating equipment available and the training session was very practical,” said Mullen. “The ‘Jaws of Life’ is vital to our volunteer operation and I am very happy that we are now equipped with the best.”

“The new equipment is multi-functional as the cutter; spreader and ram can be used at the same time. This will make the whole rescue process much more efficient.”

“It has taken our department five years to get this equipment.” said firefighter Ashley Gavel. ‘The new ‘Jaws of Life’ will cut our rescue time in half compared to the 30 year old equipment we have been using.” Instructor and president of Code 4 Fire & Rescue Chris Christie said the more powerful extractors free trapped victims more quickly.

“The new ‘Jaws of Life’ has saved thousands upon thousands of accident victims,” said Christie “Having powerful extractors is so important when time is a factor.”

“The Defender Spreader has a 50 000 pound spreading force while the X-Tractor Cutter has 100 000 pounds of cutting force. The air bag is capable of lifting over 55 tons.

In March, the Weymouth Fire Department benefited from the Emergency Services Provider Fund when it received $46 000 worth of new equipment that included turnout gear, radios and breathing apparatus.