It was a bad call. A single car into a tree. Three passengers. Dark, cold, and wet. Responders arrived after a long travel time to the scene, low on staff due to the 2:48 AM call time. It had been almost a year since a wreck this severe—not since the Soland Road call.
The power unit wouldn’t start. Hoses were tangled. Couplers were difficult to connect. And the tools? They weren’t cutting.
Why does this happen? Why do fire departments worldwide experience these same failures over and over?
The answer lies in two words: frequency and complacency.
The Reality of Perishable Extrication Skills
When was the last time your department handled a truly bad wreck? Not a fender bender or a minor door pop, but a multi-vehicle crash with serious injuries and extrication challenges. If it’s been a while, you’re not alone. Major crashes are often infrequent in many departments, especially in rural or smaller areas.
However, infrequent calls can lead to a dangerous side effect: the loss of critical skills. Both extrication techniques and rescue tool maintenance are perishable. Without consistent use and training, proficiency erodes.
It’s not just about your team’s ability to safely and efficiently perform extrications. Your tools, too, require regular attention to stay operational. Poorly maintained tools can delay rescue efforts, and in emergencies, seconds matter.
Addressing Complacency: Training and Maintenance
Firehouse training nights are opportunities to build and refresh critical skills. Yet, they often default to easier or more familiar topics: reviewing protocols, discussing department business, or revisiting fireground basics. These are important, but how often does your team prioritize extrication training or rescue tool care?
Here’s an idea: Instead of business as usual, head to the rig. Open the compartments. Pull out your tools.
Start with cleaning. Is there dirt from the last call? Rust on the blades? Rescue tools are exposed to all kinds of debris. A little steel wool and a quality lubricant like Zep 45 can make a huge difference in performance and longevity.
Inspect the couplings. Dirt or damage inside couplers can make connections difficult or impossible when time is critical.
Learn the power unit. Every responder should know its ins and outs. Does it have a choke? Where’s the throttle? Is the gas fresh and full? Are the valves operational? Don’t forget to check the oil level.
Check batteries. Are they fully charged? Are the spares ready to go? Regularly test and charge batteries to ensure they’ll perform when needed.
These actions may seem basic, but they’re essential. Practicing them in the controlled environment of the station—without the stress of a live emergency—builds confidence and proficiency.
Step-by-Step Tool Maintenance:
Cutters
Inspect under the boot. Look for debris like glass, dirt, rubber, and other materials that may have accumulated.
Check the blades. Look for gouges, nicks, or mushrooms of steel. Contact your service rep for advice on repairs or replacements.
Test the hoses and couplings. Ensure pigtails are straight and secure, and verify that couplers connect easily.
Battery tools. Check the battery attachment points for cracks or damage. Ensure the battery slides on and off smoothly.
Operate the control valve. Make sure it moves smoothly and isn’t sticky.
Blade alignment. Close the blades and check their movement. If they don’t close smoothly or cross properly, the tool may need servicing.
Spreaders
Inspect under the boot. Look for and remove debris.
Check the pistons. Open and close the tool to ensure smooth movement. Listen for squeaks or grinding noises.
Alignment. Make sure the arms close properly and aren’t misaligned due to side loading.
Clean the tips. Check for embedded debris like dirt or rubber. If the tips are removable, ensure they’re clean, lubricated, and easy to attach or remove.
Control valve. Test its movement to ensure smooth and responsive operation.
Rams
Fully extend the ram. Inspect the piston for scratches or debris. Clean it with a debris-free rag.
Test the heads. If the heads twist off, ensure they do so smoothly. Lubricate them if needed.
Accessory kit. Inspect each component for cross-threading, corrosion, or damage. Use steel wool and Zep 45 to clean the threads and apply a light layer of oil.
Speed pins. Check for corrosion and clean as necessary. Avoid using heavy grease, as it can attract dirt and debris.
Repetition Builds Confidence
Tool maintenance is not just about readiness; it’s about confidence. When a rescue call comes in, there’s no time to second-guess whether a tool will start, operate smoothly, or perform as expected.
Repetition is key. The more time you and your team spend handling, inspecting, and maintaining your rescue tools, the more second nature it becomes. You’ll know exactly how to start and operate each tool, troubleshoot issues, and prepare them for the next call.
Rescue Tool Care Saves Lives
Every moment spent on rescue tool care and extrication training pays off during a real call. A victim’s life may depend on your ability to perform under pressure—and that includes having tools that are clean, functional, and ready to go.
The next time your department has a training night, consider skipping the usual agenda. Instead, take time to pull tools off the rig, inspect them, and practice with them. Teach newer members the fundamentals and refresh your team’s skills.
Remember: Extrication skills and rescue tool maintenance are perishable. Don’t let complacency or infrequency lead to failure when seconds matter most.
Follow these guidelines, and your rescue tools will be ready to perform in any situation, ensuring you can make a difference when it matters most.
Get More Tips and Tricks on Our YouTube Channel
Want to take your rescue tool knowledge to the next level? Check out our YouTube channel, where we share detailed tips, tricks, and insights to help you stay prepared for every call. From step-by-step maintenance guides to extrication training techniques, our videos are designed to enhance your skills and keep your tools ready for action.
Visit our YouTube Channel now and subscribe to stay up to date on the latest rescue tool care and extrication strategies.
***The videos and blogs provided by Genesis Rescue Systems are intended solely for educational and demonstrative purposes. While we strive to provide accurate and informative content, viewers must understand that the techniques, methods, and procedures demonstrated in these videos may not encompass all potential emergency scenarios or considerations.
It is crucial to emphasize that these demonstrations do not substitute for professional training or certification in emergency response. Viewers are strongly advised to adhere strictly to the protocols, procedures, and guidelines established by their respective departments, agencies, or organizations during any emergency situation.
Genesis Rescue Systems and its affiliates hereby disclaim any liability for damages or injuries that may result from the improper application or misinterpretation of the information provided in these videos. Viewers assume all risks associated with the use of any techniques or equipment demonstrated and should exercise caution and discretion at all times.
By accessing and viewing these videos, viewers acknowledge and agree to the terms of this disclaimer and accept full responsibility for their actions and decisions in emergency situation***
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