As a kid I learned early on that when your dad asked you to get a tool from the toolbox you better return with what he asked for. In the fire service, that principal has remained the same. If an officer asks you to grab the irons you better have the irons in your hand. What if you ask someone to grab the Vise Grips out of the toolbox? Will you get the tool that you wanted?
Which tool would you get? 
Did you get what you asked for? Here’s why confession can exist with tool names. Are you asking for a brand name or tool name? The line between the two can be confusing. In the United States and Canada the adjustable wrench is commonly referred to as a “crescent wrench” due to the widespread Crescent brand of adjustable wrenches. Tongue-and-groove pliers are commonly known as Channellocks but many different manufacturers make that style of pliers.
What about a crowbar? Some know that tool as a wrecking bar, pry bar, or jimmy bar. Further confusion could happen from asking for a hammer? What type of hammer do you need? A claw hammer, framing hammer, or did you mean a mallets or dead blow hammer?
This confusion also exists with some power tools. The term reciprocating saw is commonly known as a Sawzall which is a trademark of the Milwaukee Tool Company. The take away is to work with your crew that everyone knows the tools by the same name.
Heavy Stabilization & Lift Class
This weekend, Toranze Lee and Premier Extrication held their Heavy Stabilization and Lifting class taught. The class focused on advanced techniques using the Paratech equipment, eDraulic tools, grip hoists, vehicle stabilization methods, airbags for lifting, power tools, and the use of heavy wreckers for extrication.
Some of the departments that attended:
The North Carolina Extrication School at Sandhills Fire Training Center was hosted by the North Carolina Office of State Fire Marshal. Firefighters had the opportunity to learn cutting-edge tactics in the world of vehicle extrication from some of the top instructors in the county.
Training
Car into an apartment building
In Mississauga, Canada, a vehicle crashed into a large residential building and the damage could have impacted up to 4 stories. Mississauga Fire and Emergency Services stated the vehicle hit the window on the building’s second floor. The driver was extricated and transported to the hospital.
Car into an apartment building
In Mississauga, Canada, a vehicle crashed into a large residential building and the damage could have impacted up to 4 stories. Mississauga Fire and Emergency Services stated the vehicle hit the window on the building’s second floor. The driver was extricated and transported to the hospital.
