May 24, 2012 -- For three days this week, firefighters from Portland Fire & Rescue’s (PF&R) Station 22 (St. Johns) participated in a vehicle extrication course provided by the Puyallup Extrication Team (PXT).

Firefighters practiced utilizing various tools and equipment associated with extrication such as hydraulic rescue tool systems, air-lifting bags, non-hydraulic powered and manual extrication equipment, and other stabilization equipment. 

The hands-on training offered firefighters the opportunity to rotate through four practical work stations performing all necessary tasks on vehicles that are positioned on their wheels, sides, and roofs.  PXT staff led firefighters through modern extrication practices using the latest technology in hydraulic and non-hydraulic rescue tools.

The class costs were covered by a generous donation from the Shirley Ann Foundation.

Photographs courtesy of Public Information Officer Paul Corah.

The Puyallup Extrication Team

The Puyallup Extrication Team (PXT) is comprised of 13 professional firefighters that teach the latest techniques in auto extrication. The team of qualified instructors has instructed thousands of firefighters from Seattle to Chicago since 2000. The classes cover Basic to Advanced Auto Extrication as well as Technical Heavy Extrication and New Vehicle / Hybrid courses. To learn more about PXT’s services, visit http://www.thepxteam.org/.