Midland FD purchases smaller ‘Jaws of Life’ tool

With a similar shape yet smaller size, the new Power Hawk tool purchased by the Midland Fire Department is designed to work like the “Jaws of Life” tool but as a more mobile unit. While the “Jaws of Life” runs off a small generator, the smaller Power Hawk tool is battery-powered, making it unique in that aspect, said MFD Capt. Robert Wade.

Shifts spent the last few days training with the new equipment and using it to take apart an old car for practice methods out at the Harris drill field. Crews used it to cut the roof and doors off a vehicle, then some firefighters practiced separating the dashboard from the driver’s seat and expanding the floor space between the two compartments.

“Because it’s a tool we don’t use very often, this was a good chance to get hands-on practice so we be can be aware of its uses and limitations,” Wade said.

One of the things firefighters learned was that because the tool has jumper cables that come with it, if their battery runs dead, officials can attach the cables to the vehicle they’re working on to help power the tool again and finish working.

The multi-functioning tool is used by the Navy and other fire departments up north. While firefighters say it’s not as strong as the “Jaws of Life,” it is just as heavy and is designed to be more portable when responding to calls.

Depending on certain chemicals involved, the tool can be used at HazMat scenes where the atmosphere may be oxygen-deficient or in areas where crews are worried about carbon monoxide. The “Jaws of Life,” since it runs on a gasoline-powered motor, cannot be used in situations like that, said officials.

Firefighters will also be able to carry the Power Hawk tool off-road or into a distant place if need be. Crews needing to open elevator doors inside a building or anything underground in a non-explosive environment will be able to use the new tool for those conditions, said Wade.

The department purchased one tool for approximately $4,000 that is being stored at Central Fire Station and will be used on Truck 1 for runs.
By Audrie Palmer in The Midland Reporter-Telegram
Photo from The Midland Reporter-News