How to Buy Rescue Tools

When seconds matter: A guide to selecting extrication equipment

Seconds matter in the golden hour. In that time, you need reliable extrication equipment that gets to work immediately and gets the job done quickly. Your job is to save lives and you need equipment that can withstand the most extreme scenarios.

When choosing equipment, ALWAYS get your hands on the tool. You must evaluate how quickly they work, how durable they are, and how they feel. The only way to accomplish that is through physically using the tool.

Here are the top ten factors to consider when evaluating extrication equipment.

  1. Durability: The equipment must operate and withstand the most extreme conditions. Ensure the equipment can pass drop tests and endure harsh conditions and heavy use without failing.
    Evaluation Recommendation: Compare each tool by conducting a drop test at 3 feet to determine if the tool will hold up to heavy rescue scenarios or just break.
  2. Reliability: At a moment’s notice your tool should be ready for operation. When powered up, it should work without any issues.
    Evaluation Recommendation: Compare each tool by performing a rocker lift off the ground. Record the time it takes to turn the tool on and lift the car.
  3. Power: Does it eat metal? When seconds count, you need a tool that can quickly cut through modern metals. Ensure it has the necessary power for efficient extrication.
    Evaluation Recommendation: Conduct an A-Pillar Test. Use a different tool on the driver and passenger A-Pillars to see which one cuts faster.
  4. Versatility: Look for tools that offer capabilities to maximize your extrication efforts. Consider tools that can be upgraded or expanded with additional accessories and attachments to enhance their functionality over time and reduce the need to carry extra equipment.
    Evaluation Recommendation: Determine if there are accessories that enhance the tool’s capabilities. Request that manufacturers and/or dealers bring accessories to test.
  5. Compliance: Ensure the tools are certified to the new NFPA 1960 Standards, which align manufacturers with fire industry standards for safety.
    Evaluation Recommendation: Confirm with the tool dealer or manufacturer that the equipment meets the NFPA 1960 standards, which were updated July 1, 2024.
  6. Training: Determine if the manufacturer or distributor provides in-service training. Your department should have the opportunity to train with the new equipment in a session led by an extrication expert.
    Evaluation Recommendation:  Determine what equipment experts in the field are using. Ask to contact departments who are currently using the tools and get their feedback.
  7. Combability:  Minimize storage needs by selecting equipment that works well with existing tools and accessories. This approach can be more cost-effective and versatile for your department.
    Evaluation Recommendation: Determine if the rescue tool battery is compatible with your rescue tools on the truck.
  8. Weight and Portability: Lightweight tools may be easier to handle and reduce fatigue, but they must balance with the required power and durability to perform the most extreme extrication.
    Evaluation Recommendation: Compare the appropriate tool specification, to your intended apparatus and extrication needs. Look for a tool that optimizes weight with the speed and force to save lives.
  9. Servicing: A tool that is easy to service is economical and extremely beneficial for departments that use equipment regularly.
    Evaluation Recommendation: Ask the manufacturer about serviceability. Determine if the dealer or manufacturer offers a training program that teaches tool maintenance.
  1. Ease of Use: Test the equipment to better understand its effectiveness and ergonomics. Tools designed with user-friendly features can reduce the risk of injury and strain for firefighters, improving efficiency and safety during operations.
    Evaluation Recommendation:     Tools should be easy to handle with gloves on. Test the clearance between the gloved hand to the tool. Wear gloves when swapping batteries and accessories.

These guidelines enable you to test the tools and ensure you find the right fit for your department. When seconds matter, when it’s a matter of life or death, having a tool that operates quickly and saves lives faster.