New rescue tools for Derby fire department

The Derby Fire Department’s rescue tools will be updated. The City Council approved a request by Fire Chief Brad Smith to replace its hydraulic rescue tools. The 2018 budget includes replacement of a set of 20-year-old rescue tools used to extricate people trapped during vehicle rescues. Smith said firefighters were given the opportunity to do hands-on testing of several brands of battery-powered rescue tools to assess power, versatility, balance and durability.

A request for bids was posted and five were received. They ranged from $32,460 to $40,865; however, the lowest bid didn’t meet specifications. Therefore, the city’s Bid Board approved the low bid that qualified, which was from HGACBuy for $36,310.