One of the reasons I love social media sites like Facebook is how one fire service related picture can spark constructive conversation.  For example, Howard Eagan posted a picture from Firehouse Expo in Nashville that shows chains and hooks in an apparatus at a booth and tagged Eric Rickenbach and added this is why training is needed. You are absolutely correct… from the show floor in Nashville.  That picture got Eric to post a comment and from there I asked him to write a few words about why chains for rescue proposes is a HOT topic.

Eric J Rickenbach – from RescueTechs

It always seems like chains and rigging are an afterthought when it comes to equipping rescue trucks. They are one of the least thought about pieces of equipment that is carried. And buying this equipment without any research could lead to disastrous consequences. “High test” chain is usually grade 43 with a working load limit (“WLL”) of 5400 lbs., and it is not recommended for lifting or rescue purposes. Grade 80 (WLL = 7100 lbs.) or grade 100 (WLL = 8800 lbs.) alloy chain is recommended for rescue work, and both can be used for overhead lifting applications. (Yes, and regardless of how much someone may argue the point – we do sometimes “lift” in the rescue world.) Will it cost you a little more? Yes, but you are also purchasing a safer tool with much greater abilities. Properly used and maintained chains and rigging will last a long time. If your agency is looking to add/update your chains and rigging the best people to ask are the heavy towing/recovery folks. These folks work with these tools every day and they will be able to help you pick the correct chains and rigging to do the job safely. One last comment, just like any other tool in the rolling tool box, you need to train regularly with chains and rigging to remain proficient and safe when using them.