The Reading Fire Department was awarded $40,000 through the Ohio Bureau of Workers’ Compensation Safety Intervention Grant Program, which was used to purchase new Genesis EFORCE SLI battery-powered rescue tools. The new equipment was supplied by Howell Rescue Systems and includes cutters, spreaders, and rams used to extricate victims trapped in vehicles following motor vehicle crashes and other rescue emergencies.
The battery-powered rescue tools provide firefighters with increased mobility, faster deployment, and enhanced operational capabilities by eliminating the need for external power units and hydraulic hose lines. These advancements allow crews to work more efficiently while improving safety for both firefighters and the patients they serve.
Over the past several weeks, department members have participated in extensive hands-on training to become proficient with the new equipment before it was placed into service. Training included tool familiarization, vehicle stabilization, door removals, roof removals, dash displacement techniques, and full vehicle extrication scenarios.
The Reading Fire Department would like to thank the members who dedicated their time and effort to researching, evaluating, and developing specifications for the new rescue tool program, as well as completing the Ohio Bureau of Workers’ Compensation grant application that made this project possible. We would also like to thank Howell Rescue Systems for their training, support, and assistance throughout the purchasing and implementation process.
The Reading Fire Department remains committed to providing our members with modern equipment and training that enhances firefighter safety and allows us to deliver the highest level of service to the community.
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