The New Columbus Fire Company added new life saving equipment for vehicle rescue operations. The fire company purchased a new Hurst battery powered cutter and spreader.

They originally started with Hurst “Jaws of Life” spreader and power unit, which were given as a gift from KME, when they purchased their fire engine back in 1992.

In 2010, the fire company upgraded their tools with the purchase of a hydraulic powered cutter, spreader and power unit.

This year, the fire company purchased the new tools at a cost of $25,000 to replace the 30-year-old set. The new set will be highly beneficial to the borough of Nesquehoning and surrounding areas and can be used underwater.

With the safety features found on today’s vehicles, spreading and cutting is more difficult than it was years ago. These new tools are much faster and powerful, and will be an asset to the department.

The officers and members of the New Columbus Fire Company would like to thank the residents for their donations that make purchasing this lifesaving equipment possible.