Monthly Drill: December 2004
Using Air Bags and Rescue Tools for Extrication
Using a small car donated by Oakwood Service Center, we stabilized it and lifted it using 2 of our 3 neoprene/kevlar air bags. The bags are inflated with air from one of our SCBA bottles. Our largest bag can lift over 22 tons. By alternating bags and blocking, we safely lifted the front of the car to extricate a "virtual" patient. Bags can be stacked to increase lifting distance, and we experimented with various combinations of blocking and single-point lifts.
Finally, we rolled the car onto its side and, using our hydraulic spreader and cutter, as well as hand tools, we broke and cut out the windows, removed the roof, and cut away the doors.
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 The controller operator should have as clear a line of sight to the bags as possible. |
 block as you go up. |
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 An inadequately stabilized load can cause the bags to shift. |
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