By: Najla Alexander
The Carteret Fire Department recently took delivery of a full complement of Holmatro extrication equipment.
Mayor Daniel J. Reiman stated that the rescue equipment replaces tools acquired in 2001.
“These rescue tools are utilized by firefighters to remove vehicle components, structural elements, and other obstacles that entrap persons involved in vehicle collisions, building collapse, and other complex rescue situations,” the Mayor said.
“Our original tools were powered by gasoline. The new tools are battery-powered and portable. This eliminates the need for hydraulic hoses and power packs, giving firefighters the flexibility to take the tools anywhere they are needed.”
The new tools can be used in oxygen-deficient environments where gas tools would stall for lack of air, Fire Chief Eric J. Wahl said. The new tools are also submersible, giving the Fire Department rescue capabilities in floodwaters and the maritime environment.
This $114,000 acquisition was made through a local grant and would not have been possible without the support of Borough officials and the Carteret Business Partnership, Carteret officials said. 
ESI Equipment is the supplier of the tools, training, and maintenance, Chief Wahl said. They have been an industry leader and are the premier rescue resource for the Indy Racing League and NASCAR, he said.
“The Carteret Fire Department has had a 26-year relationship with this State Contract Supplier, and we thank them for their decades of support to our department,” the Chief said.
Part of this deal was the inclusion of factory-authorized training for all active duty firefighters and a comprehensive maintenance program, Chief Wahl said.
“Once this training is complete, the tools will be placed in service on our front-line fire trucks in Fire Headquarters and in the firehouse located in West Carteret,” the Chief said.
“The new Holmatro Extrication equipment improves our response posture by providing our firefighters with powerful, reliable, and portable rescue equipment that can operate in all environments to protect our wonderful community and the people who travel through the Borough.”