TFD raising funds for new ropes, harnesses, webbing

TOMAHAWK – The Tomahawk Fire Department (TFD) is currently holding a fundraiser to purchase critical lifesaving equipment.

Through its Pot O’ Gold cash raffle, TFD will be able to acquire new ropes, harnesses and webbing.

TFD said the equipment is crucial for fire departments and essential for rescue operations, firefighter safety and equipment management.

“They enable high-angle rescues, swiftwater rescues, confined space entry and emergency bailout from burning buildings,” TFD stated. “This gear is indispensable for both victim extraction and firefighter survival.”

TFD said life safety ropes are utilized for hoisting, lowering and rappelling, while utility ropes are used for securing objects and training.

Harnesses (classes II and III) are essential for personal escape systems (PES), allowing firefighters to safely escape through windows during a “mayday” situation. TFD noted that they are also used for working at height and rescuing victims.

Webbing is used to create improvised harnesses, carry SCBA bottles, drag victims or incapacitated firefighters and secure equipment, according to TFD.

TFD said that this needed equipment cannot be purchased at a retail store and must adhere to NFPA (National Fire Protection Agency) 1983 standards to ensure they can handle the immense loads and stresses of rescue operations.

The current equipment used by TFD is roughly 15 to 20 years old. TFD explained that the soft goods in rope rescue must be replaced every 10 years, per NFPA.

In all, the cost for the equipment totals roughly $10,000.00. The six needed harnesses carry a price tag of about $1,000.00 each.

Pot O’ Gold tickets are available for purchase at Trig’s and WJJQ or from any TFD member for $50.00 each. The department also accepts Venmo. A total of 400 tickets will be sold. There will be 20 first-place winners of $500.00 each. Drawings will be held at TFD, 100 N. Tomahawk Ave., on Tuesday, March 17 at 6 p.m.

“These tools are not used on every call, but they are crucial for saving lives when needed,” TFD stated. “Their versatility allows for adapting to various emergency scenarios, from high-rise fires to technical rescue situations. Remember – seconds count when saving a life.”