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. A firefighter uses a spreader to push the dashboard away from the seat. They used the Jaws of Life to remove the door from the vehicle and simulate the rescue of a trapped and injured person. A special hydraulic cutting tool and reciprocating saw were used to cut through and remove the roof. An axe and other special tools were used to punch through and clear away the windshield and 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