The Loup County Rural Volunteer Fire Department is now better equipped to respond to emergencies thanks to brand new extrication tools put into service recently.
John Schroder, the department’s Safety and Training Officer, says the tools made by Genesis bring a significant advantage. Unlike traditional hydraulic models, these tools require no hoses or external power units, giving firefighters more mobility on scene.
“We now have a spreader and cutter tool that lets two responders work simultaneously, saving critical time for EMTs to treat patients,” said Schroder.
The search began over a year ago when Schroder attended Fire School in Grand Island in May of 2024. Demonstrations followed from two vendors in late summer leading to a months-long effort to secure funding.
The $30,000 price tag was made possible thanks to community generosity. Loup County residents Jim and Kathy Welniak helped submit funding proposals. The Jack Lewis Safety Fund, FCS America’s Working Here Fund and the Calamus Area Community Fund all awarded grants. Donations also came from the Ziegler family and the Loup County Ambulance group.
The tools, which weigh half as much as the old hydraulic models, arrived in early June and were officially deployed after training at the fire hall on June 23rd. Officials say the new equipment and training will allow them to respond faster to mutual aid calls across the region.
