Nixa Firefighters Receive In-Service Training on New Rescue Equipment

In March, the Nixa Fire Protection District was awarded a $123,705 Assistance to Firefighters Grant. The district recently took delivery of the rescue equipment purchased with the Grant. The district was able to purchase 3 new sets of hydraulic rescue tools, 2 large sets of vehicle stabilization kits, and a 6-piece set of high-pressure air bags. Early this week the firefighters were able to get hands-on training with the new equipment instructed by company representatives and using vehicles donated by Henry’s Towing at the Main Street Fire Station.

The addition of these tools will allow all of the districts Fire Engines to have improved automobile rescue capabilities, and allow the district’s Rescue Truck to have a wide variety of heavy duty auto and technical rescue equipment. The new hydraulic tools are lighter and have over twice the cutting / spreading force of the current tools. The stabilization kits will bring the district up to national standards of safety while stabilizing damaged vehicles and structures in rescue situations. High pressure air bags will add to the variety of tools able to lift very heavy loads in order to free trapped victims.

The grant totaled $123,705, with the districts paying a 10% match. Along with the rescue equipment the grant also purchased 2- AED / Heart monitors that will add to the Advanced Life Support response of the district, and 2- Thermal Imaging cameras allowing firefighters to see through heavy smoke conditions in burning buildings.