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| The new tools are in addition to tools already in service from AMKUS |
The Illinois Fire Service Institute (IFSI) took delivery of more than $37,000 worth of vehicle rescue tools just in time for its 87th Annual Fire College. The tools donated by AMKUS Rescue Systems are on loan to IFSI for use in their vehicle/machinery rescue classes and included cutters, spreaders, push-pull rams and Honda power units. The new tools are in addition to tools already in service from AMKUS.
"We are thankful to AMKUS for getting us new equipment to train our students with," Roger Lunt, Deputy Director for IFSI said. "It's important for our students to work with and be comfortable with the latest technology in tools to assure they are ready in the field."
The new tools were put into service at IFSI's annual Fire College where more than 100 students worked with the tools in various rescue scenarios. The tools were used in both beginning and advanced auto extrication classes. "These two classes are among the first to fill up for Fire College," Joe Drennan said. "Being able to work with rescue tools is one of the reasons these classes are so popular," he added. Drennan is IFSI's Manager for Vehicle/Machinery Rescue Program.
"We are very proud to provide IFSI with AMKUS equipment for training purposes", said Judy Weigand, Corporate Vice President for AMKUS. "Our association with IFSI provides us with excellent exposure for our products and allows students to use the latest technology in extrication. We look forward to continuing to work with IFSI for a long time to come."
The tools will continued to be used throughout the year in rescue classes delivered at IFSI's Champaign, Ill. campus and throughout the state at regional training sites.
The Illinois Fire Service Institute is the statutory fire academy for the state of Illinois. In addition to training provided at the Champaign campus, the Institute offers DHS grant-approved technical rescue, HAZMAT and NIMS training, hands-on fire officer training, online classes and conducts training throughout the state at Regional Training Centers and local fire stations. The mission of the Illinois Fire Service Institute is to help firefighters do their work through training, education, information and research.
