Jaws of Life

L-R: Mike Cannon and Barry Hopper, both of Hurst Jaws of Life demonstrate to area fire departments how the life-saving tool is used in a mock rescue operation. (Photo special to Alachua County Today )

HIGH SPRINGS – Local first responders now have another tool at their disposal to help save lives. Firehouse Subs Public Safety Foundation has issued a grant to provide one area fire department with state-of-the-art vehicle extrication tools. The High Springs Fire Department (HSFD) applied for the grant in June. In July they were notified they had been awarded the grant to purchase the requested new battery powered eDraulic by Hurst Jaws of Life.

Inclusive of the Jaws of Life are a Hurst eDraulic cutter, Hurst eDraulic spreader, Hurst telescoping eDraulic ram and C-Frame Ram Support, valued at up to $30,327.

On Thursday, Sept. 22, representatives from Hurst demonstrated how the equipment is used in a mock rescue operation. Firefighters from High Springs and other area fire departments, along with the media and members of the public attended as Hurst representatives dismantled a car as they would in an extrication situation. Not only were the doors removed, but the front quarter panel was dismantled to demonstrate how a person could be extricated, even if their legs were trapped.

The demonstration was held at the Historic High Springs Elementary School and Community Center, located next door to the High Springs Police Department.

Those in attendance who wished to participate were outfitted in actual turnout gear and worked with the team in using the equipment to extricate a patient from a vehicle.

“These new extrication tools from Hurst are battery powered and require no extra hoses or power unit, enabling firefighters to work freely and quickly with a stronger, smaller and lighter tool,” said John Montgomery, Municipal Emergency Service (MES). MES carries Hurst equipment and Montgomery is the sales representative for northern Florida.

The battery included in the eDraulic extrication tools provides enough power for a one-hour rescue operation before needing to be replaced.

“Considering the amount of power and capabilities of these tools, this is a truly remarkable feat,” said Kevin Mangan, Public Information Officer (PIO), High Springs Fire Department.

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