Tool, Recovered
Photo credit: 9/11 Memorial staff
Accession Number: IL.2008.3.11
Dimensions: 7 in X 11.25 in X 38.5 in
Dimensions (Metric): 17.78 cm X 28.575 cm X 97.79 cm
Dimensions (Metric): 17.78 cm X 28.575 cm X 97.79 cm
Hurst Tool
Description
Recovered Hurst tool, made of steel and plastic with a scissor-type cutting mechanism at the top, a handle for carrying, a compression hose at the back, and a Hurst label on both sides of the neck of the tool. The tool is rusted and encrusted in dust and dirt.
Recovered Hurst tool, made of steel and plastic with a scissor-type cutting mechanism at the top, a handle for carrying, a compression hose at the back, and a Hurst label on both sides of the neck of the tool. The tool is rusted and encrusted in dust and dirt.
Historical Notes
Hurst tools, popularly known as the Jaws of Life, are used to extricate people trapped in cars after an accident. Firefighters use the tool when they need to cut through steel or other metals. FDNY Ladder Company 4 firefighters who were assigned to the South Tower employed a Hurst tool to try to free people trapped inside an elevator.
Hurst tools, popularly known as the Jaws of Life, are used to extricate people trapped in cars after an accident. Firefighters use the tool when they need to cut through steel or other metals. FDNY Ladder Company 4 firefighters who were assigned to the South Tower employed a Hurst tool to try to free people trapped inside an elevator.
