Photo shows how much room these tools open up the front section.
The firefighters are laughing because they just started the
car.
HHFD Conducts “Jaws of Life” Training
Training under freezing temperatures on Saturday afternoon,
February 17, 2007, the Hasbrouck Heights Fire Department conducted
rescue and “Jaws of Life” training at the DPW
yard near the airport. Two donated vehicles were used in the
exercise that practiced the basic techniques that are regularly
used by the Department.
The hands-on exercise began with a training overview and review
of safety procedures.
During the first drill, the vehicle was driven deep into a
snow bank and the rescue truck winch pulled out the vehicle.
Each car was stabilized, each door was removed, glass was
removed, the roof was removed, the car’s frame was broken
and spread -- as to extricate a victim whose legs were trapped
under the dashboard. Additionally, the Department practiced
opening trunks and hoods.
Training emphasized the safety and treatment of victims during
rescue operations. Also discussed were the hazards of: un-deployed
air bags, seat belts, hybrid electric cars, etc.
The immediate solutions for ruptured gas tanks was to apply
absorbent material for small spills, and apply a layer of
foam for larger spills.
Senior Department members were able to share, with the newer
members, many practical rescue techniques and tips that they
had learned from their experiences.
Transportation and disposition of the vehicles was donated
by Lenox Towing.
Because of proximity of Route 80, 17 and 46, Hasbrouck Heights
is the second busiest town in Bergen County for extrications.
The first set of “Jaws of Life” tools were donated
to the HHFD by several service organizations about 30 years
ago. The replacement set was purchased by the Borough of Teterboro
in 1993. The HHFD welcomes tax-deductible vehicle donations
for future exercises.
