Authorize the purchase of Hurst Rescue Tools from Municipal Equipment Services through HGACBuy Program in the amount of $60,383.82. Equipment is intended for use on the new Engine 33 and Engine 44 currently in production.

Proposed equipment purchase is part of the loose equipment package for the two new fire apparatus. Loose equipment is purchased separately to ensure we are receiving the lowest price possible. These rescue tools are commonly referred to as the "Jaws of Life" and are used to gain entry into vehicles involved in traffic accidents that are severely damaged with entrapment of occupants. Funds are available in the FY21/22 Budget and a budget amendment is not required.

All contracts available to members of the HGAC Buy Program have been awarded by virtue of a public competitive procurement process compliant with sate statutes. 

All fire apparatus are equipped with Hurst tools for use in extrication of victims. Most often this entrapment occurs as a result of vehicle collision but may also occur with personnel working on or near heavy equipment or machinery. As an industrial based community, there are numerous operations occurring daily that involve the use of heavy equipment and machinery weighing several thousands of pounds or tons. These are often life-threatening injuries and with rescue tools on each apparatus extrication operations may begin immediately upon fire department arrival without the need to wait on other responding apparatus or the necessity to call for additional apparatus. The Fire Chief recommends approval of this purchase.