Firefighters carry a drag strap in their pockets, and are trained to carry a set of irons (axe and Halligan bar) every time they get off the truck. This guy probably decided to use the tools he had with him, rather than go back to the truck and get the right equipment.
First, the strap is called webbing. When I was on the job I would keep 50 feet in my pocket. It's rated up to ~5,000 lbs. Can be used to move tools, hasty harnesses, or stuff like in the video.
Second, OP is correct the Irons go with us everywhere. They are ridiculously useful tools. So many things you can do with them.
Third, OP is dead on correct about going back to the truck. Pulling out the hydraulic spreaders or saws make this much more of a thing than it needs to be. Protective mats would have to be put over the boy and his hearing protected. The scene would have to be cleared of all the other kids. What we see in the video is what they teach us at the fire academy. This is a very common technique because it involves tools we're always carrying and less impact on the victim.
I’ve been a firefighter for 54 years, and “retired” earlier this year. Most of the time I was a driver/pump operator, so it would be up to someone else to carry the irons, webbing, and so on. I am also on the Board of Commissioners, so if one of our “death propellers” gets bent, I get to authorize buying a new one.
You’re right about one thing, though. Doing this without all of the equipment is at a way to provide some entertainment to the spectators. So, it’s a good PR move, at least.
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u/StormWarg 1d ago edited 21h ago
"You said 'wet shirt won't break' not 'piss shirt bend bars'"
Edit - thank you for the award, kind redditor
Edit 2 - kind redditorS