The Susanville Fire Department is proud to announce it has received a grant from the
California Office of Traffic Safety (OTS) to purchase new extrication equipment. Known
as the “jaws of life,” first responders use these specialized tools to safely rescue crash
victims trapped inside a vehicle.
We are incredibly grateful for this grant, which will allow us to purchase state-of-the-art
rescue tools and provide training to first responders that is critical for the care of people
injured in crashes. These tools will significantly impact our ability to protect and serve our
community, allowing us to respond even more effectively in times of crisis.
Post-crash care is vital in preventing serious injuries from turning deadly. Delays in
providing expedient care impact survival chances. Reducing the time it takes to get to
the patient, treating what can be treated, and transporting the patient to the hospital
can be the difference between life and death. According to federal data, 42% of people
who were killed in car crashes were alive when first responders arrived. New “jaws of life”
hydraulic rescue tools will help first responders deliver life-saving measures for patients
trapped in vehicles, significantly increasing chances of survival.
Funding for this program was provided by a grant from the California Office of Traffic
Safety, through the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.
Office of Traffic Safety Awards $40,000.00 Grant to the Susanville Fire Department for New Emergency Response Equipment
