By Scott M. Bruner
FireRescue1 Product Editor
Choosing the right tool for the right firefighting job isn’t always the easiest task, but Channellock’s #88 and #89 Rescue Tools significantly cuts down on the number of tools you need to bring to the firefight.
The #88 and $89 Rescue Tools are 6-in-1 tools specifically designed for a wide range of firefighting tasks. They combine six essential features: a safety glass punch, gas shut-off valve, a spanner wrench, pry bar, a large cutting head and a plier head with cross-hatched teeth. This package fits onto one piece of equipment. It eliminates the weight and bulk of carrying multiple devices for the different tasks a firefighter could face.
“Because of the wide range of our calls, the guys have traditionally carried Halligan tools, screwdrivers, knives, flashlights – the whole nine yards,” said Capt. Francisco, a 23-year veteran of the Columbus Fire Department. “It’s all about striking the right balance between carrying the right amount of equipment to get the job done but not being weighed down by too much.”
Both Rescue Tool weighs a little over one-and-a-half pounds are hardened, high carbon pliers which can shatter safety glass and feature cross-hatch teeth for twisting and pulling. Both feature a spanner wrench able to tighten and loosen up to 6” couplings.
The #89 also has a narrow jaw profile for fitting into tight spots, and was also designed to cut through soft metals and can easily cut through standard battery cables.
“We look for something that’s versatile for every run,” said Columbus firefighter Karl Kiss. “A multi-use tool like the #88 Rescue Tool, on many occasions, eliminates having to run back to the truck to get additional tools in the middle of a rescue.”
The #88 and #89 Rescue Tools were specifically designed to provide the right tool in an emergency, where time is absolutely precious. Channellock, a tool company that boasts a 100-year pedigree of making specialized tools and pliers, was approached by Meadville, Penn., firefighter Chris Gillingham to create the all-in-one tools.
The #88 and #89 rescue tool are Channellock’s first generation of firefighting tools. The #88 was their first tool, released in May of 2008, while the #89 came out a year later. Both retail for $55.28.
For more information visit www.channellock.com.