(COLUMBUS) If you’re trapped inside a wrecked car, seconds matter. Columbus firefighters say new rescue tools now in service will help them cut through modern vehicles faster and more safely.
The Columbus Fire Department has put a new battery-powered Jaws of Life set into service, replacing older equipment and an electric hydraulic pump that can no longer be repaired because parts are unavailable.
The new cutter is designed to slice through advanced high-strength steel commonly found in newer vehicles. It has an 8-inch opening. The spreader delivers 135,000 pounds of force and can open up to 32 inches. A new ram extends nearly 60 inches, allowing crews to push a dashboard off someone who is pinned inside.
The full cost of the new edraulics Jaws set was $43,245. The City of Columbus, the Columbus Rural Group and the Columbus Firemen’s Service Corporation each contributed one-third, or $14,415 apiece.
Fire Chief Scott Hazeltine thanked those groups, along with local businesses and residents, for supporting the department.
“None of this would be possible without your support and donations,” Hazeltine said.
