MAKERS OF JAWS OF LIFE PARTNER WITH CHARITY
August 18, 2008
Rescue Tool Manufacturer Commits to Donations Shelby, North Carolina- Hurst, Jaws of Life announced today a partnership with Firefighters Crossing Borders, a charitable organization dedicated to saving lives worldwide. Earlier this month, Hurst implemented an aggressive rebate program in which fire and rescue departments are able to trade in working tools for cash. Hurst announced their commitment today to donate those tools to charity where they will most likely be used in Central America. “We take corporate responsibility seriously” says Bill Simmons, Vice President of Sales and Marketing for Hurst. “Vehicle extrication is an issue worldwide and it’s expensive. We’re taking steps today to ensure that our purpose in saving lives is met. Our organization exists to serve the public. We have one of the most well recognized brands in the world as the creator of ‘Jaws of Life.’ Our goal is to meet those objectives and make a difference.” “It’s costly but it’s the right thing to do” says Aaron Guenther, Hurst’s Director of Marketing. “We’re going to bring in the tools from various fire departments, test them and make sure that they get into the hands of the experts, who will distribute them to make the most impact. It’s not just about tools, but also training. Firefighters Crossing Borders asked for our help and we want to make a difference.” The program issued by Hurst has been designed to target fire departments in North America because of new car technologies. These technologies aren’t as prevalent in places like Central America so classic tools are still very effective. Also, most departments in Central America don’t carry rescue tools because of their cost. “By teaming with Hurst, Jaws of Life we are confident that the outdated yet functional tools donated will get into the needing hands of emergency workers in Mexico and around the globe” said Joel Schwarz, Executive Director of Firefighters Crossing Borders. “Those of us in the United States have reaped the benefits of the Jaws of Life for many years where it's now considered the industry standard. Nearly every roadway in our country is complimented with a Jaws of Life rescue tool. In less developed countries the nearest tools may be hundreds of miles away.” “Currently our dealer network has stepped up and donated trade-ins to less developed countries, we’ve supported that and now we’re taking it to the next level. These tools will make a difference and we’re committed to a positive outcome” said Guenther. The exact number of tools donated will be dependant on the number of fire departments that participate. “Fire departments in the states need new tools, so now is the time to make the most impact” states Simmons. “The best case scenario is a flood of tools from caring, compassionate Americans who show a genuine desire to help. I really want to see a pile of tools sent to charity.” Any fire or rescue personnel interested in rebate information should visit Hurst’s website. Interested parties in contributing to Firefighters Crossing Borders may do so on their web site at www.firefighterscrossingborders.org
Authorized Sales & ServiceFirematic is your authorized Hurst Dealer and tool Service Center. We also provide training for the use of rescue tools, and we host the annual J.O.L.T. competition. To learn more about the latest products, visit the Hurst website.
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