Firegeezer is collaborating with TheFireStore to have
firefighters in the field test and review products found in their catalogue
and then publishing the reviews here and in TheFireStore's
own fine blog, On Scene, which is posted several times each week
* * *
Today we are reviewing the RES-Q-ME Personal Rescue Tool from TFT. Res-Q-Me was originally designed by Task Force Tips to be used by public safety officers, on duty and off. In fact, this inexpensive, lightweight keychain-size tool delivers performance comparable to many full-size extrication tools. With its integrated, stainless steel window punch and razor sharp cutter blade, the Res-Q-Me can quickly break out windows and slice through seat belts—allowing you, or someone you care about, to escape from an overturned, submerged, or otherwise disabled vehicle. Deputy Chief Steve Weissman of the Stafford County, Virginia, Fire & Rescue Department has been carrying it with him on duty and off, and sampled its ability to perform as claimed. He tells us what he found:
I had the opportunity to test the Res-Q-Me personal key chain tool. It is obviously meant to be carried in a pocket or purse while off-duty as a self-aid for an emergency. It is compact and easy to carry.
While it is designed for personal use as a pocket tool, I also tested it as a work tool as well.
In the past, I have utilized a commercial-style spring-loaded center punch to take out a vehicle's window. The Res-Q-Me tool is light weight and easy to use. One quick push on the tool at the windows edge is all it took to shatter the glass.
* * *
The manufacturer explains that the breaker will not work on the rare autos that have laminated side glass, but advises that the rear windows will be able to be penetrated.
The seatbelt cutter is sharp and effective. It is however a small tool which caused an issue attempting to locate it from within the pocket of my turnout coat. I would suggest that it be attached by a ring to another tool or hooked onto the turnout coat.
TheFireStore's catalogue page explains that: Res-Q-Me can be attached to your car keys or any place in your vehicle that’s visible and easy to reach in an emergency. It can be removed from its attachment point simply by pulling the tool away from the clip. There’s no need to take the keys out of the ignition or unthread the device from a key ring. Just pull. And because pulling the device away from the clip also exposes the seat belt cutter, the Res-Q-Me is instantly ready for use.
I am impressed with its ease of use and would highly recommend purchasing a few for family members; it will make a great gift for their key chain and is very affordably priced.
…… Deputy Chief Steve Weissman
Stafford County Fire and Rescue
For more information on the RES-Q-ME Personal rescue tool, and to order from TheFireStore, CLICK HERE to go to their catalogue page.
Firegeezer adds: I'm impressed with this one, and a very affordable price, too. I'm going to order several as gifts for some of my family members (and one for me, too).
To follow their blog On Scene, CLICK HERE.
Stafford County Fire & Rescue WEBSITE.
* * * * * * *
Also on FireGeezer…
- Product Review – Akron Tri Bar Forcible Entry Tool – March 12, 2012
