SUNNYVALE, Calif. – Sunnyvale Fire Station 2 echoed to the sounds of cutting saws, hydraulic pumps and screeching metal as firefighters and rescue technicians from around the state took part in the City’s 10th annual automobile extrication training program Saturday and Sunday, October 7 – 8.
More than four dozen cars, vans and light trucks were dismantled by the 75 professionals attending the course as they learned the correct way to open up a car that has an accident victim trapped inside.
“Today’s vehicles are much safer for the occupants, but they also present more hazards to the rescuer,” explained Sunnyvale Department of Public Safety (DPS) Deputy Chief Tim Johnson. “Explosive charges power air bags, electric and hybrid cars carry strong electric currents, and rescuers need to understand how to safely open up these cars. When there is a critically injured person inside, a rescuer must take the car away from around the patient, as opposed to just lifting the patient out a window.”
With the advent of the Hurst Tool, also known as the “Jaws of Life,” and other powerful cutting, bending and pry tools, rescuers can be much more exacting in their approach to extricating a victim. But they also have to learn how to keep themselves and others safe during the rescue effort.
The acclaimed DPS program brings instructors from throughout the western U.S. to Sunnyvale each year to certify candidates.