CLEARFIELD – Clearfield Fire Department received a new tool recently to help them even more with rescue work.
The Hurst Ocutter eDraulic rescue tool is a battery-powered version of the tool already used by the department.
Often referred to as “jaws of life,” the cutter can be used to cut open vehicles in the event of entrapment, clear debris in structure fires or for forcible entry in an emergency.
Deputy Fire Chief Andrew Smith remarked that it will be especially useful when needed in a situation where the traditionally-used tools, which are connected to lines or attached to the trucks, can’t reach, such as off-road situations or multi-vehicle crashes on the interstate.
Brett Collins, assistant fire chief, said they received the tool Feb. 11 and haven’t had the opportunity to use it yet.
He said they hope to get another one for the rescue truck and one for the squad and will keep the ones connected to the lines as backup.
The battery life is approximately 1.5 hours, and there are additional batteries and a charger kept on the truck.
One of these tools costs $9,500 and the fire company was able to purchase this with donations from several individuals and organizations, including CNB Bank, the Fraternal Order of Eagles No. 812, AFSCME Local No. 302, Don Shaw and an anonymous donor.
Fire company members noted they wouldn’t be able to purchase updated equipment without the help of generous donations from the community and they appreciate the support.