Special Equipment
WFD apparatus carry numerous pieces of specialized equipment designed to make firefighting and rescue operations faster, safer, and more effective. Some of our special equipment is shown below.
Hydraulic Rescue Tools
The WFD responds to numerous auto accidents each year. In many cases, the patient is easily removed from the vehicle and transported to the hospital. Sometimes it's not possible to remove a person from a vehicle using conventional means because of the amount of damage to the vehicle. In this situation, special tools are needed to force open a door or cut the vehicle away from the patient so that medical care can be initiated. This type of rescue is called "vehicle extrication." Extrication is usually accomplished with hydraulic speading or cutting tools. The WFD uses Holmatro Rescue Tools for this purpose. These tools can generate more than 200,000 lbs of cutting or 30,000 lbs of spreading force. In most cases, they make quick work of forcing open doors, or cutting roof panels from vehicles. All WFD members recieve training in auto extrication techniques and the use of hydraulic rescue tools.
Thermal Imaging Camera (TIC)
A Thermal Imaging Camera (TIC) is a special thermographic camera used in firefighting. By rendering infrared radiation as visible light, a TIC allows firefighters to see areas of heat through smoke, darkness, or heat-permeable barriers. Thermal imaging cameras are typically handheld, but some can be helmet-mounted. They are constructed of heat- and water-resistant materials, and ruggedized to withstand the hazards of fireground operations. All WFD apparatus are equipped with a handheld TIC.
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Automated External DefibrIllator (AED)
Every year about 415,000 people die from Sudden Cardiac Arrest. Most cardiac arrests are caused by an abnormal heart rhythm called Ventricular Fibrillation (VF). VF occurs when the heart’s electrical system malfunctions, causing a chaotic rhythm that prevents the heart from pumping blood and oxygen to the victim’s brain and body. Defibrillation is the only known therapy for VF. Defibrillation can increase survival rates dramatically if administered within the first few minutes. All of our Apparatus and Chief's vehicles now carry AEDs. With this device our members can provide rapid lifesaving care in the event of a sudden Cardiac Arrest
Self-Contained Breathing Apparatus (SCBA)
Self-Contained Breathing Apparatus (SCBA), is a device worn by firefighters to provide breathable air in a hostile environment. SCBA cylinders contain AIR, not oxygen and are pressurized to 4500 PSI. Under typical firefighting conditions, a full air cylinder will last about 20-30 minutes.
High-Pressure / Low-Pressure Air Bags
High-pressure and/or low-pressure air bags are often used during rescue operations to lift heavy objects. These devices come in various sizes, shapes, and lifting capacities. Air bags are filled with compressed air from a high-pressure cylinder or air compressor.
Water / Ice Rescue Equipment
Over the past 10-15 years, many communities have seen a dramatic increase in flooding. In fact, the WFD responds to a number of serious incidents each year involving partially submerged vehicles with occupants trapped inside. Each of our vehicles now carries a full complement of ropes, flotation devices, and life vests to handle these emergencies. The department also has special equipment for ice rescue operations, including thermal flotation suits, and a floating ice-rescue platform that allows firefighters to reach victims who have fallen through thin ice.
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