Special Rescue Operations firefighters with NASA Fire Rescue Services practice vehicle extrication training.

Special Rescue Operations firefighters with NASA Fire Rescue Services in the Protective Services Office at NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida practice vehicle extrication training at an auto salvage yard near the center. Two firefighters assist as another firefighter uses the Jaws of Life on the car to simulate the rescue of a trapped and injured person. A special hydraulic cutting tool and reciprocating saw were used to remove the roof of the vehicle. Other firefighters used axes and special tools to punch through and clear away the windshield and the windows.

Kennedy’s firefighters recently achieved Pro Board Certification in aerial fire truck operations. With the completion of vehicle extrication and Jaws of Life training, the Protective Services Office is one step closer to achieving certification in vehicle machinery extrication. Kennedy’s firefighters are with G4S Government Solutions Inc., on the Kennedy Protective Services Contract. Photo credit: NASA/Daniel Casper