AMKUS News
September 18, 2026
AMKUS Rescue Systems Receives UL Mark Authorization for Milwaukee Battery-Powered Rescue Tools
AMKUS Rescue Systems has completed a UL Solutions evaluation of its Light and Heavy Rescue Tool models using Milwaukee® Li-Ion batteries and associated electronics, receiving authorization to apply the UL Mark to the evaluated products.
UL Solutions issued a Notice of Completion on August 31, 2026 and a Certificate of Compliance on September 8, 2026, confirming completion of its investigation and the compliance of the evaluated products with UL Mark requirements. The evaluation was conducted under NFPA 1960, Standard for Fire Hose Connections, Spray Nozzles, Manufacturer’s Design of Fire Department Ground Ladders, Fire Hose, and Powered Rescue Tools, 2024 edition.
“This UL Mark authorization provides important third-party recognition of our rescue tools following evaluation to the applicable requirements,” said Tim Jennings, AMKUS Engineering. “We’re pleased to have completed this evaluation for our Light and Heavy Rescue Tool models using Milwaukee Li-Ion batteries and associated electronics.”
UL Solutions confirmed that the products covered by the project met the requirements for the UL Mark and authorized AMKUS to apply the mark at the manufacturing locations identified in its certification file.
Products bearing the UL Mark must be identical to those submitted to UL Solutions for evaluation and certification and must comply with the applicable Follow-Up Services Procedure.
About AMKUS Rescue Systems
AMKUS Rescue Systems is a leading manufacturer of high-performance extrication tools for firefighters, emergency responders, and racing safety teams worldwide. Based in Valparaiso, Indiana, AMKUS designs and builds simple, rugged, reliable solutions for real-world rescue scenarios where speed and strength matter most. From advanced battery-powered tools using the Milwaukee and DeWalt FLEXVOLT® platform to heavy-duty hydraulic systems, AMKUS products are proudly made and assembled in the USA. With a strong commitment to innovation, training, and customer support, AMKUS helps first responders meet today’s challenges with confidence. For more information, visit www.amkus.com.
March 2, 2026
AMKUS Rescue Systems and High Limit Racing Partner to Advance Competitors’ Safety Nationwide
AMKUS Rescue Systems, a leading manufacturer of rescue tools trusted by first responders and motorsports safety teams worldwide, today announced a new partnership with Interstate Batteries High Limit Racing, one of the fastest-growing sprint car racing series in North America.
Through this partnership, AMKUS will support High Limit Racing’s safety team with high-performance rescue equipment designed to perform in the most demanding environments, helping ensure rapid response when every second counts.
“High Limit Racing represents the future of sprint car racing, and we’re proud to support their safety teams with tools built to perform under pressure,” said Emilie Maheu, President of AMKUS Rescue Systems. “Both organizations share a commitment to protecting lives in high-risk environments, and we’re excited to be part of their continued growth.”
The partnership was identified and developed by AMKUS Sales Manager Kodi Smith, whose connections within the racing community helped bring the collaboration together.
“Safety teams operate in incredibly demanding conditions, and they deserve equipment they can trust without hesitation,” said Kodi Smith, Sales Manager at AMKUS. “This partnership ensures High Limit Racing has access to tools built to perform when it matters most.”
“As drivers, we strap in to our race cars with confidence and trust in the people around us,” said Brad Sweet, CEO of Interstate Batteries High Limit Racing. “As executives at High Limit Racing, it’s our job to make sure that trust is backed by preparation. AMKUS provides industry-leading emergency response tools that elevate the standard across our series. Having AMKUS as a partner is a major asset for our drivers, our venues and everyone involved with High Limit Racing.”
For more than 40 years, AMKUS Rescue Systems has designed and manufactured rescue tools trusted by fire departments, technical rescue teams, and motorsports safety crews worldwide. Built on the philosophy of Simple. Rugged. Reliable., AMKUS tools help professionals perform when lives are on the line.
About AMKUS Rescue Systems
AMKUS Rescue Systems is a leading manufacturer of high-performance extrication tools for firefighters, emergency responders, and racing safety teams worldwide. Based in Valparaiso, Indiana, AMKUS designs and builds simple, rugged, reliable solutions for real-world rescue scenarios where speed and strength matter most. From advanced battery-powered tools using the Milwaukee and DeWalt FLEXVOLT® platform to heavy-duty hydraulic systems, AMKUS products are proudly made and assembled in the USA. With a strong commitment to innovation, training, and customer support, AMKUS helps first responders meet today’s challenges with confidence. For more information, visit www.amkus.com.
About High Limit Racing
Founded by two-time NASCAR Cup Series champion Kyle Larson and six-time national sprint car series champion Brad Sweet, Kubota High Limit Racing is a premier sprint car series in the United States. High Limit Racing’s mission is to improve the sprint car ecosystem and create growth opportunities for drivers, teams, and tracks, all while providing highly entertaining, time efficient events. High Limit Racing events are streamed live on FloRacing. For more information, visit www.highlimitracing.com.
January 15, 2026
AMKUS Expands Strategic Safety Dynamics as Authorized Dealer for Eastern New York
AMKUS Rescue Systems is pleased to announce the expansion of its partnership with Strategic Safety Dynamics, who will now serve as the authorized AMKUS dealer for the eastern one-third of New York State.
Building on an existing relationship, this expanded agreement broadens Strategic Dynamics’ territory and representation of the full AMKUS product portfolio, including battery-powered rescue tools, accessories, and service and support solutions across eastern New York.
“Strategic Safety Dynamics has been a trusted AMKUS partner, and expanding this relationship was a natural next step,” said Emilie Maheu, President of AMKUS. “They consistently demonstrate a strong commitment to customer service, technical expertise, and supporting first responders in the field. We’re confident this expanded territory will further strengthen the support available to departments throughout eastern New York.”
Strategic Dynamics has established long-standing relationships with fire departments by delivering reliable equipment, hands-on training, and responsive service.
“We’re proud to continue growing our partnership with AMKUS,” said Jay Fischler, President of Strategic Safety Dynamics. “Expanding our territory allows us to better serve the departments we already work with and extend AMKUS’s simple, rugged, reliable rescue solutions to more first responders across the region.”
About AMKUS
AMKUS Rescue Systems is a leading manufacturer of high-performance extrication tools for firefighters, emergency responders, and racing safety teams worldwide. Based in Valparaiso, Indiana, AMKUS designs and builds simple, rugged, reliable solutions for real-world rescue scenarios where speed and strength matter most. From advanced battery-powered tools using the DeWalt FLEXVOLT® platform to heavy-duty hydraulic systems, AMKUS products are proudly made and assembled in the USA. With a strong commitment to innovation, training, and customer support, AMKUS helps first responders meet today’s challenges with confidence. For more information, visit www.amkus.com.
About Strategic Dynamics
Strategic Safety Dynamics (SSD) is a full sales, service, and training company to the Fire, Police, EMS, and emergency service industries throughout NY, NJ, CT, RI, and MA, representing a variety of the industry’s biggest vendors. Our personnel are experts in all disciplines of public safety and emergency management. SSD’s core objective is to provide our customers with the best products, services, and instruction to increase preparedness, efficiency, and safety. Strategic Safety Dynamics’ training division specializes in Basic Firefighter Operations, Live Fire Operations, Forcible Entry, and Special Technical Operations such as Confined Space, Rope Rescue, Trench Rescue, Large-Area Search, Advanced-Vehicle Big Rig Extrication, Collapse, and Emergency Elevator Operations. As a distributor of DJI & Autel Thermal Drones, SSD can also provide FAA Part 107 Unmanned Aerial System Knowledge Exam Training.
November 2025
Vertical Crush: A Controlled Approach to the Door Pop
By Cole Kleinwolterink
One of the most common auto extrication tasks firefighters perform is a simple door pop. While the concept is straightforward, proper technique and tool placement often determine whether the evolution is smooth and efficient or a drawn-out struggle. There are multiple ways to pop a door, and every firefighter should know more than one so they can adapt to any scenario. This article focuses on one reliable option: the Vertical Crush.
After the initial size-up, the vehicle must be stabilized. Once that’s complete, the firefighter evaluates the door and forms a plan of action. Before placing any extrication tools, remove glass — both glass and glass management are essential.
If the window glass remains intact, it must be removed first. Laminated glass management is more challenging than tempered, as laminated glass tends to stay intact rather than shatter. Firefighters can test the window by striking a corner; tempered glass will shatter, while laminated will crack and stay together.
If laminated, the best option is to cut it with a reciprocating saw. If tempered, use a spring-loaded window punch placed in the lower corner of the window. It will break it safely, allowing the remaining shards to be cleared away. Another option is to insert the adze end of a Halligan into the gap between the door and the window, then twist side to side until the glass breaks.
There are certainly other methods to take tempered glass, but one method to avoid is swinging any type of tool into the victim compartment when this is done in the interior.
If the window is laminated, it contains an inner plastic layer that holds the shattered pieces together. This glass must be cut out rather than punched. Tools like the Glas-Master or power options such as a sawzall or Vetter glass cutter work well. A Ripper Window Attachment can also be used effectively. No matter the method, firefighters must remain mindful of hidden occupant obstructions (such as deployed airbags) and avoid glass management near undeployed airbags.
Once the glass is managed, it’s time to perform the crush. Begin by evaluating the door and determining where the spreaders can be placed. The top of the door may have a bracing bar or intrusion beam, making spreading at the top ineffective. If the spreaders do not crush against the saved glass intact, the good news is that, at least through the 2011 model year, most vehicles do not have inflators above the front door window openings. The bad news is that many vehicles do have inflators mounted horizontally in the roof rail above the rear door openings. Performing a vertical crush in those areas could puncture a 4,000 psi inflator, creating a serious hazard.
Cole Kleinwolterink is a member of the Waukee Fire Department, and Graphic Fire Equipment, and Fire Service Instructor at Des Moines Area Community College. Feel free to reach out to Cole at cole.kleinwolterink@gmail.com with any questions, concerns or inquiries.
To read more, visit https://www.iowafirefightersassociation.com/
October 1, 2025
AMKUS® Rescue Systems Launches Heavy Rescue Series™: Continuing the Gold Standard for Extrication Tools
- Incorporates carbon fiber for proven durability
- Unmatched strength-to-weight performance, saving lives faster
- Powered by the industry’s largest motor for maximum speed and efficiency
- Proudly Made in the USA and UL 3rd party tested to NFPA 1960 certification
The Heavy Rescue Series™ includes five advanced tools engineered for today’s toughest extrications: the Heavy Rescue Spreader, Cutters, Combi Tool, and Telescoping Ram. Each tool delivers unmatched performance, durability, and reliability in heavy rescue operations providing first responders the critical edge when every second counts.
Powered by DeWalt’s FLEXVOLT® 60V 12AH battery platform, the Heavy Rescue Series™ seamlessly integrates with both rescue and hand tools, doubling run time and eliminating proprietary battery systems. Responders can count on reliable power and simplified logistics at the scene.
Crafted from carbon fiber, these tools achieve a breakthrough strength-to-weight ratio that makes them unmatched in speed. An industry-leading motor ensures unmatched speed, while features such as the Gator Grip™ 360° handle and Guardian Angel® integrated scene light deliver superior ergonomics, control, and visibility under pressure.
“Every detail of the Heavy Rescue Series™ was engineered with firefighters in mind,” said Emilie Maheu, President of AMKUS Rescue Systems. “From the industry’s largest motor that delivers unmatched speed, to the carbon fiber and titanium build that keeps the tools light, strong, and durable, these innovations give responders the power and control they need when lives are on the line.”
The Heavy Rescue Series™ is proudly Made in the USA, third-party tested, and UL certified to NFPA 1960, reinforcing AMKUS’s commitment to unmatched reliability and safety in the fire service.
For more information about the Heavy Rescue Series™, visit amkus.com/heavyrescue
August 25, 2025
NASCAR and AMKUS Extend Storied Partnership
NASCAR today announced a multi-year extension of its partnership with AMKUS Rescue Systems, continuing the companies’ longstanding relationship. AMKUS manufacturers rescue tools trusted by fire departments and first responders worldwide. For more than 40 years, AMKUS has delivered simple, rugged, and reliable extrication solutions that help first responders and NASCAR’s Safety Team save lives faster.
Under the agreement, AMKUS will remain the Rescue System of NASCAR and the Official Rescue System of NASCAR racetrack properties, including Bowman Gray Stadium and The Clash, Daytona International Speedway, Darlington Raceway, Homestead-Miami Speedway, Iowa Speedway, Kansas Speedway, Martinsville Speedway, Michigan International Speedway, Phoenix Raceway, Richmond Raceway, Talladega Superspeedway, and Watkins Glen International.
AMKUS Rescue Systems will also continue as the Official Product Sponsor of the ARCA Menards Series, supporting NASCAR’s premier development platform.
Since the early 1980s, AMKUS and NASCAR have worked side by side to ensure the safety of motorsports industry. This partnership has strengthened NASCAR’s commitment to safety across its national platforms and events.
“At AMKUS, everything we do comes back to saving lives faster,” said Emilie Maheu, President of AMKUS Rescue Systems. “We build tools that are simple, rugged, and reliable because first responders need high performing equipment. Our continued partnership with NASCAR reflects that same standard of safety and performance, and we’re proud to support their teams as they protect drivers, crews, and fans at every event.”
Read more: https://speedwaydigest.com/index.php/news/racing-news/570614-nascar-and-amkus-rescue-systems-extend-storied-partnership/
Media Requests:
Sarah Oliver
AMKUS Rescue Systems
sarah.oliver@amkus.com
219-548-5000
Media Contact:
Matt Nordby
NASCAR Communications
mnordby@nascar.com VIDEO/GALLERY: Fire departments tout extrication importance
Today, each department performs its own extrications.
Legacy Regional Protective Services has trained all three of its stations since 2017. The City of Lloydminster has done this work for over a decade and the County of Vermilion River (CVR) has been performing extrications for years.
To show these skills in action, Legacy Regional firefighters performed a live demo at Lashburn Day on June 14. They removed two “patients” from vehicles using spreaders, cutters and the Jaws of Life.
Read more: VIDEO/GALLERY: Fire departments tout extrication importance
Media Requests:
Sarah Oliver
AMKUS Rescue Systems
sarah.oliver @amkus.com
219-548-5000
May 13, 2025
AMKUS® Rescue Systems Announces Launch of Light Rescue Series™ Adding to its Line of Best-In Class Extraction Tools for Firefighters and First Responders
- Lightest Spreader in its Class
- Crafted from Carbon Fiber and Titanium making it Stronger and Lighter, while maintaining durability
- Uses Largest Motor in Industry Delivering Unparalled Speed and Efficiency
- Proudly Made in the USA
Valparaiso, IN May 13, 2025 — AMKUS® Rescue Systems, a leader in the manufacturing of extraction tools for firefighters and emergency responders, announced that the company has launched its newest product line – The Light Rescue SeriesTM™.
The Light Rescue Series includes the Light Rescue Spreader, Cutter, and a Combi tool that combines a Spreader and Cutter in one device. The products incorporate carbon fiber and titanium making the tools stronger and lighter, while maintaining durability. They also now include the industry’s largest motor.
“We designed the Light Rescue Series to meet the real-world needs of today’s firefighters,” said Emilie Maheu, President of AMKUS Rescue Systems. “Departments asked for lighter, more balanced tools without compromising strength. We delivered — using advanced carbon fiber and titanium engineering to create a series that’s faster, tougher, and easier to maneuver on scene. And, just like every AMKUS product, the Light Rescue Series is proudly made in the USA.”
The company introduced its new Light Rescue Series product line in April at FDIC International in Indianapolis, North America’s leading fire and rescue conference.
June 18, 2025
AMKUS® Rescue Systems Expands Partnership with FAS/Diamondback Fire & Rescue in Arizona, California, + Nevada
Valparaiso, IN June 18, 2025, AMKUS Rescue Systems is proud to announce an expanded partnership with FAS/Diamondback Fire & Rescue, who has been appointed the authorized AMKUS dealer for the state of Arizona, California, and Nevada. Effective immediately, FAS/Diamondback will serve as the exclusive representative for the entire AMKUS product portfolio, including battery-powered rescue tools, accessories, and service/support solutions. “AMKUS Rescue Systems is proud to strengthen our relationship with FAS/Diamondback,” said Emilie Maheu, President of AMKUS Rescue Systems. “Their commitment to exceptional service and deep industry knowledge makes them the ideal partner to serve first responders in Arizona, California, and Nevada.” With decades of experience serving fire departments and emergency service professionals, FAS/Diamondback is known for its customer-first approach and broad portfolio, which includes apparatuses, rescue tools, PPE, service, and more. Their hands-on, responsive support ensures first responders have the tools and training they need to save lives safely and effectively. “We’re honored to expand our partnership with AMKUS Rescue Systems and bring their powerful, American-made tools to departments across Arizona, California, and Nevada,” said Scott Beck, Sales Manager at FAS/Diamondback Fire & Rescue. “Our mission is to deliver more than just top-tier equipment—we provide the support, training, and expertise first responders rely on when seconds count.” AMKUS Rescue Systems designs and manufactures a full line of simple, rugged and reliable, high-performance battery-powered rescue tools. Engineered for real-world rescue scenarios, AMKUS tools are known for their durability, speed, and unmatched support—all proudly made and assembled in the USA. To explore FAS/Diamondback’s full range of services, visit fasrescue.com or diamondbackfire.com. With a commitment to innovation, training, and customer support, AMKUS stands ready to help first responders meet today’s challenges with confidence. For more information, visit www.amkus.com.March 5, 2019
AMKUS ION 2.0 Tools Are NFPA 1936 Compliant
By Fire Apparatus & Emergency Equipment Staff
VALPARAISO, IN—AMKUS Rescue Systems has received UL certification of compliance to NFPA 1936, 2015 edition, for its ION 2.0 battery-powered rescue tool family. The cutter, spreaders, combination tool and RAM passed an NFPA-designed series of difficult tests centering on safety and endurance that prove that the tools can live up to the challenging demands that a rescue worker will need. While the NFPA standard allows manufacturers to use test results completed on equivalent models of hydraulic line tools for portions of the battery tool compliance testing, AMKUS is unique in that 100 percent of the required NFPA tests were completed using the ION tools. This means that every component of the ION tools, including the electric motor, electronic circuitry, and the hydraulic pump, has been validated based on completing the full array of tests required of NFPA 1936, even the most demanding durability tests.
The ION tools all utilize the DEWALT FLEXVOLT™ battery platform. The 60-volt battery operates ION 2.0 tools and will power both 60-volt and 20-volt DEWALT tools. It is the only battery that automatically changes voltages when you change tools, so you can share batteries between ION tools and other tools like saws and drills.
ION 2.0 tools carry on the AMKUS tradition of rugged tools that are both balanced and backed by outstanding service and support. New ION 2.0 tools can be found in AMKUS’ FDIC International booth #3503. In addition, tool demonstrations will be presented at the FDIC Real Time Demo area on April 11 and 12. Contact your local AMKUS dealer for a local demonstration or for more information.
To read more, visit https://www.fireapparatusmagazine.com/equipment/amkus-ion-20-tools-are-nfpa-1936-compliant/
Media Requests:
AMKUS Rescue Systems
marketing@amkus.com
219-548-5000
