Robert Green posted for all of us...


They take a special skill
to use because under dire circumstances speed is of the essence. But
placing them incorrectly can result in the patient being injured even more
when the metal finally "gives" and tears apart. It would be great if
someday you could just ask Google:


The "Jaws of Life" was a trademark by Hurst Corp. which was developed and
used in auto racing and crash extrication. It was heavy and vibrated like
heck when run off the gas power pump, which was notoriously hard to start
and required much maintenance. The motor noise and vibration would put
victims into a panic state unless crews were well trained. One could pinch
their finger off between the jaws when the jaws were let down. Later came
electric pumps. It was a major advance over the porta power eq. mentioned.
The porta power stuff was used in the construction industry and adapted by
the fire service. The alligator jaws mentioned were very weak and if not
operated correctly would break during an evolution. Very hard to pump and
cheater bars were used sometimes. The pump had to be operated against a
solid surface such as asphalt. They sometimes wouldn't work if the reservoir
was above the pump. Also short hoses... Would NOT cut through the A pillar
of a car.
Now air bags have become common and useful.

Gotta go...

--
Tekkie *Please post a follow-up*