The Fraser Lake Fire Department has recently upgraded its hydraulic rescue tools - sometimes known as the ‘jaws of life.’
While the old tools worked well, modern automobiles contain special alloy steels that require tools capable of higher cutting and spreading forces than the previous ones could provide.
The increased power in the new cutter and spreader will also allow the crew to work more effectively on heavy trucks and equipment.
New hydraulic hoses, which were part of the upgrade, utilize new technology that allows for one single hose and improved connectors
The upgrade project cost $26,000 and was funded by the Village of Fraser Lake with the assistance of matching funds from Public Safety Canada. The department responds to motor vehicle incidents on Highway 16 from Willowvale just east of Fort Fraser to Priestly Hill partway to Burns Lake, and on the many secondary roads in the area.