When Muscle Power Isn't Enough: Lifting & Handling Equipment for Fire Departments

Fire Departments also respond to medical emergencies and accident scenes, where they may need to extricate victims from wreckage or debris. There's no doubt that firefighters are strong people, mentally and physically. But an iron will and muscles aren't always enough to get the job done. So, fire departments often rely on equipment like wire rope hoists, along with other lifting and handling devices to do their jobs and to keep people safe.

Essential Fire Fighting Equipment

Firefighters rely heavily on their equipment, from specialized vehicles to hoses, ladders, axes, Halligan bars, and other specialized gear. No fire department operates without helmets, breathing apparatus, and specialized protective clothing. But, another of the key tools rescue teams and firefighters use is lifting and handling equipment. And one of the most versatile and useful types is the manually operated wire rope hoist.

Why Use Manual Wire Rope Hoists in Fire Fighting?

No matter how strong the firefighters are, they can't do all the heavy lifting on their own, and large, powered heavy lifting and handling equipment isn't always going to be available or appropriate on-site. A manual wire rope hoist is an incredibly versatile tool that firefighters and emergency rescue teams rely on frequently. Whether it's a structure fire, vehicular accident, or natural disaster that firefighters are dealing with, these hoists are quite indispensable.

A manually-operated wire rope hoist can be used in a variety of ways, including:

• Safely moving people and equipment into and out of enclosed spaces
• Positioning heavy equipment or supplies on-site
• Moving fallen trees and other debris that are causing an obstruction 
• Venting roofs and tearing down walls during a fire
• Moving overturned or below-grade vehicles on an accident scene

What Makes Wire Rope Hoists Ideal for Fire Fighting Applications?

In addition to the many tasks a wire rope hoist can perform on-site, there are other important reasons they are ideal fire fighting equipment.

Portable and Quick to Deploy

Time is of the essence during a fire and firefighters need to quickly get to victims. Maneuvering a heavy piece of equipment into place for a rescue would take too much time and put too many people at risk. A wire rope hoist can be transported by an individual firefighter to the exact location it's needed in moments and put to use immediately.

No Electricity Needed

Often, on the scene of an emergency there is limited (or no) access to electricity. If flammable fumes or other substances are present, the use of powered machinery may be dangerous or impossible. A manual wire rope hoist doesn’t require any external power, and it creates no spark or ignition hazards.

These Hoists Are Strong

This type of lifting and handling equipment is incredibly strong, but you have to choose the right device for the job. Whether lifting fairly light loads up to 500 lbs./225 kg or loads that weigh tons, a wire rope is the lifting equipment of choice for many situations including car accidents, structure fires, natural disasters, and other emergencies.

Pull or Lift at Any Angle

Unfortunately, there isn't always a direct route to facilitate a rescue or to move objects and equipment. It may be necessary to pull vertically, horizontally, diagonally, or around corners and other obstructions. With a wire rope hoist, it's a simple matter of adjusting the angle to get in the right spot and positioning portable blocks and pulleys to get any job done.

Cost Effectiveness

While it may be expensive to purchase the firefighting equipment necessary to put out fires and protect human lives, it's necessary. The good news is that this type of hoist is an incredibly good investment for any firehouse due to its versatility, portability, and longevity.

Easy Maintenance 

Firefighters take good care of their tools and equipment so it's ready and available whenever needed. While some maintenance tasks can be time-consuming and difficult, taking care of wire rope hoists isn't one of them. They are easy to disassemble, clean, and maintain.

Your Partner for Wire Rope Hoists and Fire Fighting Equipment 

Rescue and firefighting work require years of commitment, experience, and hard-earned expertise. For decades, Tractel® has provided gear and training to firefighters around the world which meets or exceeds OSHA and Canadian Occupational Health and Safety standards. Contact Tractel®, and one of our fire fighting equipment experts will be happy to answer any questions you have about choosing the right wire rope hoist or other lifting and handling equipment for your department, so you can keep protecting us all. 

You can also visit our dedicated wire rope hoist page to learn more about our solutions for fire fighters.