Firefighter I -

1. Firefighter I - Firefighting Basic Tools

2. Introduction to Basic Tools Insert short video clip of chapter author describing the importance of this section of the manual

3. Introduction– Section Slide

4. Chapter Objectives Introduction Following completion, the student shall be able to: List and describe general-purpose firefighting tools and equipment Name a tool in a given picture with 100% accuracy List and describe the safety considerations of each tool Identify tools used during forcible entry

5. Chapter Objectives Introduction Following completion, the student shall be able to: Identify tools during overhaul Identify tools used in fire attack Describe the maintenance requirements for each type of tool and equipment Describe cleaning and inspection procedures prior to and after use of tools

6. Tools in the Fire Service Introduction • Firefighting is a labor intensive, tool dependant occupation • Firefighters need to master the use of firefighting tools

7. Tools in the Fire Service Introduction • Tools should be used as an extension of one’s body • Allows firefighters to multiply their force or leverage

8. Basic Tools Classifications Introduction Categories of Tools • Cutting • Cutting and striking • Striking • Pushing • Pulling • Prying • Use images from provided by Fire Engineering

9. Cutting Tools – Section Slide

10. Types of Cutting Tools Cutting Tools • Engine and truck companies carry two types of hand tools that strictly cut Pick-Head Axes Bolt Cutters

11. Features of a Pick-Head Axe Cutting Tools • Single-bit axe • An ideal axe head weighs 8 lbs • Blade should be a smooth surface free of necks and dings

12. Features of a Pick-Head Axe Cutting Tools • Opposite the blade is the pick • Pierces materials to create a starting point for cutting • Can be used to shatter materials

13. Cutting with a Pick-Head Axe Cutting Tools • Make sure the area is clear of personnel • Accuracy is key to effectively using any axe • If the same spot is hit each time, a hole can easily be made

14. Cutting with a Pick-Head Axe Cutting Tools • The following will work against you: • Gravity • Wind • Bad weather • Burning structure • Weight and restrictions of turnout gear

15. Swinging a Pick-Head Axe Cutting Tools • Grasp the handle firmly and select a comfortable stance • Spread feet and center body weight • Flex your knees

16. Swinging a Pick-Head Axe Cutting Tools • Hands should not go higher than shoulders when swinging • Do not let the axe head go behind head and shoulders

17. Swinging a Pick-Head Axe Cutting Tools When Swinging the Axe • Insert Video Clip of Firefighter Swinging an axe • Slide one hand along the shaft to meet the hand grasping the bottom • Swinging with one arm stiffened or “pushing” the tool will cause you to tire quickly

18. Swinging a Pick-Head Axe Cutting Tools When Swinging the Axe • Let the weight of the axe do the work • Concentrate on accuracy • The blade should strike the surface at a slight angle

19. Swinging a Pick-Head Axe Cutting Tools • Video of pick-head axe in use outlining the previously covered techniques • Audio overlay describing the actions

20. Freeing a Jammed Pick-Head Axe Cutting Tools • Do not pull as you may lose your balance and fall • Work the axe handle up and down a few times to release the blade

21. Freeing a Jammed Pick-Head Axe Cutting Tools If the blade is deeply stuck: • Grip the handle with one hand and grasp the pick with the other • Work the axe head back and forth to release the blade

22. Using the Pick Side of a Pick-Head Axe Cutting Tools • Used to create a “starting” hole • Some materials may be too thick or have too much spring to allow for immediate cutting

23. Using the Pick Side of a Pick-Head Axe Cutting Tools • Flip axe over and set your stance • Swing like you were using the blade side • Maintain a firm grip on the handle • Let the weight of the tool drive the pick

24. Using the Pick Side of a Pick-Head Axe Cutting Tools • Video of Firefighter swinging the axe with the pick side out addressing previously described techniques

25. Freeing a Jammed Pick Cutting Tools Don’t Pull • Push handle forward a little and pull back toward you

26. Freeing a Jammed Pick Cutting Tools If it Remains Jammed: • Lower to handle so it is parallel with the cutting surface • Rotate the handle 15° in either direction

27. Bolt Cutters Cutting Tools • Provide a quick and easy method of cutting through various items • It is crucial to use cutters appropriate for the materials being cut

28. Bolt Cutters Cutting Tools • Dielectric bolt and wire cutters are not used by firefighters • Never cut through energized electrical lines

29. Features of Bolt Cutters Cutting Tools • Made of high quality carbon steel • Have long fiberglass handles with rubber grips

30. Using Bolt Cutters Cutting Tools • Evaluate material to be cut • Wear full PPE and eye protection • Know what will occur if you cut something • Cutting cables or cords could release something being held

31. Cutting Locks with Bolt Cutters Cutting Tools • Cut shackle high on the shackle • Gives you another place to get a purchase • Cutting too close to the lock can jam the cutters

32. Cutting Locks with Bolt Cutters Cutting Tools • Not designed to cut through case-hardened steel • Don’t try to “force it” using two firefighters • Select a different tool

33. Other Uses of Bolt Cutters Cutting Tools • Removing wire mesh or lath during overhaul • Twisting off battery terminals on cars and trucks • Insert Image of Bolt cutters removing wire mesh during overhaul

34. Cutting/Striking Tools– Section Slide

35. Striking Tools– Section Slide

36. Prying Tools– Section Slide

37. Push-Pull Tools– Section Slide

38. What’s Used for What When?– Section Slide

39. Tool Maintenance -Section Slide

40. Summary-Section Slide