Top 10 Equipment for the Emergency Services

Even if you have never been in a situation where you urgently needed the help of a rescue worker, you can imagine from many situations that you are familiar with from television programs, for example, that every single second can sometimes decide the success of such an operation. Success is even formulated quite neutrally - it is often a matter of life and death. If you look at the total number of emergency calls in 1994/1995, which was 9,513,411, you can observe in detail and see that there was a constant increase in the number of calls made in the decades that followed.

The most recent annual figure listed in the Federal Health Reporting Information System speaks volumes in this regard. A total of 14,263,948 operations were carried out in 2013/2014. This rapid increase makes it clear even to laypeople that a quick and smooth operation is extremely important in order to be able to cope with these numbers and still provide those affected with good, high-quality treatment.

But not all operations are the same. The scenarios and complications on site can be at least as diverse as the various locations where the rescue workers have to deliver an impressive performance. In order to be able to react quickly and in a targeted manner even in more complicated terrain, such as in the mountains, forests, confusing accident sites or burning buildings, the right equipment is required, which lays the foundation for this. The equipment for the rescue service was selected and designed in such a way that flawless and quick use is guaranteed at all times, while still being incredibly powerful. These well-thought-out aids are the everyday tools of every rescue worker and enable them to quickly become active with just a few simple steps.

But what exactly is important about these auxiliary items? What makes this equipment so worthwhile and special?

WOLFGANGS has taken a closer look at the top 10 pieces of equipment for the emergency services and goes into detail about their features.

The right footwear

Most people would not suspect that choosing the right footwear has much to do with successfully putting together equipment for a rescue mission – after all, you can probably walk in any shoe, right?

Life cannot be made quite so easy with this extremely important equipment, as it can be a matter of life and death and the material must therefore be of a high standard. While normal everyday shoes are made solely for the purpose of looking flawless, the shoes of a rescue worker must fulfil more important and, above all, more useful properties so that the sure-footedness and stability play into the hands of the often short reaction window at the scene of the incident.

But high-quality material alone is not enough - only standardized standards ensure that all shoes have the same quality features and meet the high requirements. This is also the case with the EN ISO 20345 standard, for example. Shoes with this seal of quality guarantee non-slip use and some come with a puncture-proof sole. This can be particularly advantageous in impassable areas and in muddy and slushy places and can save precious seconds. Other features of this standard include antistatic properties, fuel resistance of the sole, water resistance at the highest level, a closed heel area, a toe cap and a high-quality sole profile that can easily cope with almost any type of ground.

Especially when it comes to heat resistance and durability, firefighter boots that meet the EN15090:2012 standard can do even better than the previously mentioned standard variant. Specially adapted to the operational conditions of a firefighter, you also enjoy uncompromising protection against electricity, cold and moisture, as well as sharp objects. Of course, fire and heat-resistant properties are also perfectly worn. The EN15090:2012 standard is divided into various subtypes, each designed for a specific area of ​​application. The standards guarantee first-class quality control and give the emergency responders the highest level of safety.

Without these high quality ratings, it would probably not be possible to have the same equipment and supplies across the board. Regardless of the individual standards and properties, it can be said that the shoes used by rescue workers have an enormous lifespan and quality and many rescue operations would probably not be possible without them.

Protective professional headgear – The helmet

The protective helmet is used in many rescue scenarios and, although many people mistakenly believe this, is not only used by the fire service. Often referred to as fire helmets, they can also be found in other emergency organizations in everyday use because their protective properties have proven to be extremely effective there too and provide incredible comfort.

As already summarized for shoes, the quality of protective helmets is also standardized, which is divided into individual categories using standards. This ensures consistently high operational performance for this essential piece of equipment. Initially standardized in 1956 with a preliminary standard, it was not until 1997 that DIN EN 443 laid the foundation for today's safety guidelines. In 2015, the standards DIN EN 16471 and DIN EN 16473 were added, which were designed for forest and area fire fighting, as well as for technical rescue purposes in general.

The protective helmet is part of every firefighter's PPE - which stands for " personal protective equipment ". The fact alone that this piece of equipment is part of the basic equipment clearly underlines the safety-relevant importance it has during operations. Together with the leather neck protector and face shield, the helmet forms the safety triangle, which effectively protects against falling objects and extreme heat.

In order to meet these high demands, a few companies have specialized in the production of such equipment for the emergency services and can therefore boast many years of experience. During the production process, only suitable and durable materials are used that can withstand extreme conditions without any problems. Such materials include aluminum, Kevlar, duroplast, thermoplastic, or a plastic reinforced with glass fiber, which is called GRP for short. The head and neck, as well as the entire facial area, are optimally protected with this approach.

Some helmets even have blast-proof properties to prevent the wearer from suffering whiplash if the worst happens. The profile of the perfect protective helmet is rounded off by the possibility of adding certain upgrades if necessary. For example, many helmets can also have lights and radios attached to them to further increase the chance of success during an operation.

Structured Design – The Emergency Backpack

What would the rescue service be without a clear storage option that allows quick access and thus saves valuable time at the scene of the incident? Even the best-trained rescue worker cannot perform to his full potential if the necessary and vital instruments are stored in a way that is difficult to access. The rescue backpack is therefore not just a simple storage utensil, but rather a strategically cleverly arranged aid that is part of the indispensable basic framework of every emergency responder.

The backpacks not only offer everything you need for a successful operation in terms of their structure. Other features have also been adapted to the special and, above all, high requirements, so that outstanding quality is guaranteed at all times. This also applies to the ergonomic properties. In order to enable flawless and, above all, quick treatment, it can sometimes be very important that the rescue service has their hands free so that they can react effectively in an emergency. Nothing would harm this undertaking more than a rescue backpack that does not have ergonomic properties.

It is important that padding measures and perfectly crafted individual parts create a high level of comfort when worn. This comfort should allow the rescue service to have perfect freedom of movement and should never be annoying or painful. Since a rescue backpack should always be equipped for in-depth and wide-ranging diagnostics and therapy options , the high-quality and ergonomic design is all the more important in order to be able to carry and transport the many instruments and components smoothly.

The equipment is also assembled taking standards into account. One of the essential basics is module A of the DIN 13232 standard. This module is mandatory. But the quality of a backpack should also leave a high-quality impression in addition to the structural and ergonomic aspects. Only materials that allow for a wide range of uses and have first-class durability are selected during the production process.

Polyamide or polyester with a corresponding protective coating, for example, both have good breathable and durable properties and also make a brilliant impression when it comes to impacts and dirt of any kind. Stretchable, elastic and water-repellent features also fit well with the operational profile of a rescue service.

Powerful and precise – The fire axe

As the saying goes, you shouldn't " barge in like a bull in a china shop ," but this wisdom is not used by firefighters. The brutal and ruthless entry through the front door has a different significance in the day-to-day work of a firefighter, as in the worst case scenario this action can decide whether a life is saved or not. Here, a powerful entry is even absolutely necessary if the situation does not allow for an alternative approach. As this undertaking with bare hands would be a rather painful and not particularly effective approach, the firefighting specialists need a multifunctional and high-quality emergency assistant who can meet these requirements on a daily basis.

The fire axe was designed specifically for this area of ​​application. The axe helps like no other tool when breaking down and breaking through doors. It can be used quickly, powerfully and precisely to carry out operations, enabling you to react quickly and, for example, rush to the aid of people who are locked up. The design of a fire axe can vary. Axes with a wooden handle (FA) are just as much a part of the equipment options as versions with glass fiber reinforced plastic, known as FAK for short.

Here, too, as with the previously mentioned equipment for the rescue service, quality is ensured across the board by a standard. The DIN 14900 standard regulates uniformly how the quality and structure should be designed. During production, meticulous attention is paid to ensuring that certain properties that determine success or failure in later use are consistently implemented. Only materials are used that ensure that the axe is robust and durable.

Excellent resistance to moisture and chemicals is at least as important as a virtually indestructible structure. The perfect axe should also have good slip resistance so that blows and lever movements can be carried out easily and safely. Not to be forgotten is the sharpness of the splitting edge. The splitting edge must be properly sharpened so that no great and time-consuming effort is required to use it. It is also important to always ensure that the lever edge is in good working order.

Getting some air – The respirator mask

Without a breathing mask, it would be impossible to progress in some situations. Even with the most expensive and best equipment, you will quickly be put in your place if you run out of breath during these strenuous and demanding activities. The breathing mask is one of the most important pieces of equipment in the rescue service and is part of the basic equipment of the fire service or technical relief organization, for example.

Regardless of whether you get fresh air or not, the mask is also simply responsible for ensuring that harmful components in the air do not enter the body. It is the only effective and functioning approach to combat these substances, microorganisms and gases, some of which are not even visible to the naked eye.

This is an excellent way to keep respiratory toxins away and allows the wearer of respiratory protection to concentrate on other important tasks, such as rescuing people trapped in burning buildings. Due to their high effectiveness and ease of use, respiratory masks are also used in the military and are indispensable in some scenarios.

The high-quality masks are classified into different categories. They are mainly divided into 2 groups - full masks and half and quarter masks. For full masks, the EN136 standard ensures that quality features are standardized everywhere. For half and quarter masks, this is regulated by the EN140 standard. Even if the term "respirator mask" is the only correct and official term for the life-saving all-rounder, other terms have become established and are usually used more often. They are also known as gas masks, breathing masks or ABC protective masks.

During the production process, the masks are usually made of rubber or silicone. In the past, materials such as fabrics or leather were also used, but this method is now considered outdated and is no longer taken into account. The rubber has special characteristics that could be extremely helpful when used. For example, an age-resistant rubber mixture is always used, which also has skin-friendly properties.

Since, in addition to good and clean breathing air, the wearer's vision plays a crucial role at the site of use, attention is also paid to the high quality of the visor. It must be free of reflections and distortions, but at the same time, scratch-resistant and anti-fog properties are also a focus. In order for all of these properties to be effective, the size of the visor is also an important factor. The wearer should be able to see everything around them perfectly. An extremely generous sized visor is therefore part of the standard.

The type of respiratory protection provided by the devices can be further divided into two different groups or types – a distinction is made here between ambient air-dependent and ambient air-independent respiratory protection.

In the first variant, the air is supplied via a breathing connection or a breathing filter. The breathing filter is already permanently installed in some mask models. In the case of the ambient air-independent respiratory protection, uncontaminated breathing gas is supplied to the wearer via a breathing connection. This type is also known as an "isolation device".

Versatile applications – The multifunctional tool

Outdoor enthusiasts and hikers know the advantages of a multifunctional tool all too well and know exactly how practical this little helper can be in the field. It's child's play and easy to stow away in your pocket, and you'll be even more amazed when you see what this multifunctional supporter is capable of. But it's not just outdoor manufacturers who are taking advantage of this wow effect - multifunctional tools are also increasingly being used in the emergency services world.

They allow emergency services to react quickly and precisely with just a few simple steps and offer an outstanding range of functions that you would not expect from a product of this size. Rescue workers, paramedics and firefighters trust the tools equally and really appreciate the overall performance package. In many unpredictable situations, the tool is often the only way to carry out a successful rescue. For example, when people are trapped, as is often the case in car accidents. In order to be able to free the affected or injured person quickly and safely, it is sometimes necessary to cut a path free.

Multifunctional tools used by rescue workers are usually equipped with seat belt cutters and hard metal glass breakers, which make rapid intervention possible in such situations. By taking the tool with you, you can therefore specifically ensure that no disruptive factors hinder a rescue operation. From a purely psychological point of view, these options are an enormous asset for the rescue service. Other features often installed in such rescue tools include wire cutting and needle-nose pliers functions, and all blades can be locked and operated with one hand.

Stable and powerful – the right knife

Compared to the multi-tool variant mentioned above, the knife for rescue services does not have such a wide range of features, but this does not mean that you can do without it in use. While the quality features of the multi-tool are distributed across several small sub-points, the knife offers concentrated and impressive performance in one product. The focus here is not on an even distribution of quality, but rather the performance can be released directly in just one single part. When it comes to power, stability and, above all, precision, there is no way around a high-quality knife.

When producing knives specifically designed for rescue operations, the focus is on user-friendly design. The thumb opener and release button are usually large, so that they are easy to access and operate . This also has the advantage that the knives can be used perfectly even with thick and usually unwieldy gloves. Firefighters in particular can benefit enormously from this approach. This avoids the time-consuming and laborious task of removing gloves. The safety-relevant gloves can continue to perform their protective function even when the knife is being used.

As with any other knife, the main focus of a rescue knife is on the blade. Only extreme and constant sharpness can ensure that the emergency services can act in a targeted manner in an emergency. The success of the operation can depend on the sharpness of a blade. Nothing would be more devastating than realizing on site that the sharpness you brought with you turns out to be insufficient and that you cannot carry out an action at all or only poorly. Only the finest and most durable steel is used in the production of such products. The knives are also usually provided with an extremely sharp serrated edge. Of course, the steel also has rust-proof and durable properties. Finger recesses and thumb ramps on the handle also ensure a perfect grip. A grooved or rubberized handle is also often found.

The little helper in an emergency – The mini rescue stick

In terms of its range of functions, the mini rescue stick has some parallels to the multi-function tool and knife mentioned above, but there are also unique features that make this little helper an indispensable item in an emergency situation. The incredible lightness and small size are particularly noteworthy. While the knife and multi-function tool are already impressive in terms of packing size, the mini rescue stick can easily outshine them.

The fact that an ultra-light device, which you can hardly feel when you are wearing it, is able to save a life in an emergency is an incredibly valuable point for the rescue service and exudes enormous safety during operations. Many of the models weigh less than 100 g, so they can be transported easily and effortlessly in stressful and demanding situations . While other important devices put your own stamina to the test and drastically reduce your freedom of movement, the mini rescue stick offers full flexibility and in return still provides a powerful overall package.

The functions of such a staff can in most cases be divided into three areas of application – crushing, cutting and seeing.

In order to be able to precisely break car windows without using a lot of force, the tools have a hardened steel tip that makes this task easy. Injured people can be freed quickly in this way or you can simply clear your own path in an emergency.

The ability to quickly reach and free injured people also plays a key role in the “cutting” application. Thanks to a belt cutter with an integrated knife blade, belts can be cut easily. The time-saving features make it possible to save precious seconds and provide quick care for injured people.

The service package is rounded off by the "vision" feature. This function can make the difference between success and failure, particularly in darkened areas or during night operations. Reduced vision could have serious consequences for those seeking help, as it means that the rescue service is not able to act 100%. A flashlight is essential in order to have a good overview of dangerous situations, injuries and your own equipment. The light function of the mini rescue stick provides an excellent solution here. With this handy solution, the rescue service has the option of acting without restrictions even during dark operations.

Life-saving second skin – firefighting clothing

Although firefighting clothing can easily withstand flames and heat over the long term, it is important that this life-saving protective clothing fits like a second skin. The enormous demands placed on the clothing must not be in conflict with perfect freedom of movement, as this is also vital for survival during an operation. The art of harmoniously combining these two points has been optimally implemented in the clothing of the firefighting troops.

Functionality, durability and comfort go hand in hand here at all times and ensure that the wearer can carry out his tasks perfectly. This feeling of good preparation gives the wearer the necessary self-confidence even during stressful operations. This in turn can result in a life-saving action.

The clothing worn by German firefighters is usually subject to the DIN EN 469 standard, or the protective equipment is based on HuPF, which is an abbreviation for manufacturing and testing guidelines for firefighter protective clothing. It is therefore important to ensure uniform quality for this equipment as well and to control this through standard guidelines.

Only extremely resistant material can successfully defend itself against heat, impact, friction and even water. During the production process, only suitable materials that are specifically classified as suitable for emergency scenarios are used. The robustness is achieved, for example, by using Kevlar and titanium.

Kevlar is best known for its use in police clothing, but it is also used by firefighters due to its shock-resistant, hard-to-penetrate and durable properties. Extreme external influences are therefore unlikely to cause serious damage or injuries to the wearer.

This character is also retained when using Nomex. The revolutionary heat and flame resistant fiber has long been an integral part of firefighting clothing. With this material, entering burning buildings in an emergency is no challenge.

Gore-Tex, on the other hand, would not be associated with these areas of application at first glance, as it is more commonly known from the outdoor and hiking sector. But the water-retaining properties of Gore-Tex can also be put to good use in rescue services. In order to deliver top performance, it is imperative that the wearer stays dry even on long, rainy days. You also have to be prepared for extreme water exposure at the site of operations over longer periods of time. Gore-Tex proves that the membrane system also delivers excellent performance far beyond the hiking segment.

The highly intelligent mobile control center – The radio

Radios are no longer designed the way most of us remember them. The image of a clunky voice device that can at best transmit an unclear and noisy voice message is long outdated and belongs to the past. Modern radios are sophisticated and highly intelligent control centers that can independently interpret events and data quickly and precisely in order to then transmit messages to the responsible people. They can be viewed more as organizational and technically sophisticated mini-computers than pure voice message transmitters. These technical advances are largely responsible for the radio being one of the most important pieces of equipment in the rescue service. The fire service in particular can hardly do without the use of such devices.

In addition to the well-trained rescue workers, many technical details ensure the necessary order at the scene of the incident. Many devices can independently locate available emergency services in the surrounding area and alert them automatically in the event of an emergency. This ensures that no valuable time is wasted and that helpers can quickly get to the scene of the incident. This availability is sent to the control center at the same time so that they can get an overall picture of the number of emergency services. If you imagine how much time it would have taken to perform these tasks manually, you are glad to be able to rely on technical support in such situations. Dangerous substances are also sent directly to the control center in the form of digitalized information. Fire safety inspections of the building can be easily accessed at any time and help those responsible in an incredible way to get a realistic picture of the situation.

These named performance functions were only a small fraction of the total scope of such a radio device. This clearly shows once again how important modern radio devices are and how many lives can be saved by using them. Mobilizing, checking, acting and alerting is incredibly effective and is therefore an integral part of the daily routine of the rescue service.