New Vehicle Construction vs. Extrication

[rjnaab1303]

I am looking for information about new vehicle construction materials and methods in relationship to their possible problems for the extricaiton team. Such as harden metal columns to which the shoulder harnesses are anchored, steering column construction, body panels on Saturns, etc. Would like to know best methods to remove the wreckage from around the patient(s). This is for a class I am going to do from my department in the near future.

[billy]

Please visit www.Extrication.com. There is a
lot of good valid information posted there. Also, try www.terc.org.

[resqb]

First follow billy's post and go to extrication.com, both info areas and the forums.
My co. in the past year or so has run into a few newer vehicles and it's been interesting.
Saturns: First attempt to pop a door(just wedged shut a little not really damaged) pushed the plastic skin >12" and released. Skin went back into place.
BMW: Air bags a go-go. Luckily didn't need to pull out jaws. bags everywhere (A-post, roof, steering wheel, passenger side.) Stop by a dealer and see.

[Diesel]

If you're looking for some training aids, about a year ago, Holmatro put out a decent video which addresses some of the new vehicle technology. The video touches on new vehicle design trends such as the use of plastics for body panels, high strenghth steels etc etc.

The video is entitled "New Vehicle Safety Systems for the Rescuer". $60.00. Available by contacting Holmatro at 410-768-9662, or at 505 McCormick Drive, Glen Burnie, Maryland 21061.

As for the plastic body panels...we had great success with a cordless sawzall on a Pontiac Fiero recently.

Good luck with the training.
BE SAFE!
Diesel

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[HIangleLT]

The Saturn dealer has a demo car that shows all points of the shell under the skin, it's a great way to get a look at the latest technology in new car design. If you need a quick answer to your extrication question about new vehicles... think reciprocating saw it gets overlooked to often in the world of extrication tools. With the cars that are on the market today, your imagination and education are the best tools you can have. Firehouse usually has an article on air bag placements in vehicles every month be sure to read up or go to the web page. Get as much info from the dealerships' as possible, they will have good information on specific designs.
T.C./B.S.
Lt.Rick Brown
Escambia Co.F.R.,FL.