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New Smyrna Beach Fire Department Training |
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 The cars looked like toys abandoned on the tarmac by an inattentive child. One was on its roof, another on its side, the third upright, but without wheels.
Surrounding a derelict taxi cab, about a dozen firefighters toiled and talked as they set up a pair of braces on opposite sides of the vehicle.
Once the chains were linked and nylon straps tightened, the cranking began. What was once a teetering mass of metal stabilizes, then, with a few more turns of the handle, the car rises off the pavement.
"If someone were trapped under there, we could use these instead of airbags," New Smyrna Beach Battalion Chief Mike Coats said as he watched the effort, offering an occasional suggestion. "They are much more versatile and efficient."
 The devices are called Res-Q-Jack, a four-unit system that can extend from 3 feet to 12 feet in length and lift a car with ease.
Fire crews from Port Orange, Edgewater and New Smyrna Beach spent three days earlier this week, learning how to operate the new tools, which cost about $5,000 for the set.
Port Orange Fire Lt. Chip Thomas said having all three agencies coordinate such a training opportunity benefits everyone involved. For example, if there were a crash on the interstate it would be possible each might respond. By working with each other in advance, they learn how each operates.
"We get comfortable working together," he said.
Such activities would not be possible without community assistance, Coats said.
"We get the cars from Airport Auto Salvage II (in Edgewater)," he said. "Without them, extrication training would not happen."
Salvage yard owner Wanda Starr said she has been providing wrecks for area firefighters to practice on for more than 20 years. And at $100 to $250 apiece for about 30 vehicles a year, that generosity is significant.
Starr concedes her motivation is selfish.
"I might be the one lying out there needing help," she said. "This gives them the opportunity to do the job right."
Starr is not the only contributor. The fire departments also take advantage of the resources of Bishop's Wrecker Service.
"We are an additional toolbox for the department," owner Roy Bishop said.
By working with his tow truck operators, the fire crews can benefit from equipment such as the service's heavy lift truck, which can move 100,000 pounds with ease.
"It is all about saving someone's life," Bishop said.
This story found on mytopiacafe.com
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Extrication Events 
