WILTON, CA (MPG) - The Wilton Fire Protection District is the recipient of a $20,000 grant to purchase new extrication  equipment, according to a news release from the California Office of Traffic Safety. Known as the ”Jaws of Life,” first responders use these specialized tools to safely rescue victims trapped inside a vehicle.

“The new equipment will help reduce the time it takes for us to safely reach someone who needs immediate medication,” said Wilton fire Captain Gino Buranzon. “The OTS grant funding will give us the opportunity to purchase modern rescue tools and provide training to the first responders that is critical for the care of those injured in crashes.”

Delays in providing care to crash victims impacts the “golden hour” of survival, a care principle in the emergency medical services industry. Reducing the time it takes to get to the patient, treat what can be treated, and transport the patient to the hospital helps improve the chance for recovery.

Funding for this program was provided by a grant from the California Office of Traffic Safety, through the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.