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Choose and inspect extrication air bags

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By Mark van der Feyst

Air bags are a great tool for the vehicle extrications. There are two types of air bags: high-pressure and low-pressure. Low-pressure air bags are typically used for lifting heavy objects over a great height, such as 6 feet. Whereas high-pressure air bags are used to lift heavy object only a short height, such as 8 to 10 inches.

Regardless of what type of air bag you are using in your fire department, it needs to be inspected regularly to ensure that it is ready for service at all times. Some air bags will develop cracks, deep gouges, have chunks of rubber missing from the surface or other visible defects. If a defect is found, remove the bag from service and have it repaired by a qualified technician.

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