Technical Rescue

Specialized Rescue Services

The Snyder Fire Department provides several specialized rescue capabilities to respond to emergencies beyond traditional fire suppression. These services are designed to protect life and property in challenging situations, and are carried out using advanced training and specialized equipment.

Our most frequently requested service is vehicle extrication, using hydraulic rescue tools, often referred to as the "Jaws of Life." Other specialized rescue capabilities include High-Angle Rescue, Low-Angle and Confined Space Rescue, Wind Turbine Rescue, and Swiftwater Rescue.

The department’s heavy rescue truck, Rescue-One, serves as the primary apparatus for most technical rescue calls.

Vehicle Extrication

The Snyder Fire Department routinely responds to motor vehicle accidents where occupants are trapped or injured. Our firefighters use hydraulic rescue tools, including:

  • Spreaders
  • Cutters
  • Rams
  • Specialized extrication equipment

At each scene, firefighters ensure safety by:

  • Disconnecting active airbags
  • Controlling fluid spills
  • Directing traffic
  • Preparing the scene for EMS personnel

If occupants are trapped, firefighters safely remove vehicle components to allow EMS to reach and transport victims.

High-Angle Rescue

High-angle rescues involve using ropes, harnesses, and specialized hardware to safely raise or lower people during rescue operations.

Our firefighters are trained locally and through Texas A&M University programs. The Snyder Fire Rescue Team has also provided instruction for other area fire departments in high-angle rescue techniques.

Low-Angle & Confined Space Rescue

The oil field and wind turbine industries create a need for confined space rescue, which can involve hazardous atmospheres or oxygen-depleted environments.

Snyder Fire Department personnel are trained to operate safely in these spaces, often using:

  • Cascaded breathing air systems
  • Explosion-proof equipment
  • Specialized technical rescue tools

Training is primarily in-house, led by certified instructors qualified to teach rescue procedures.

Wind Turbine Rescue

Thousands of wind turbines now exist in Scurry and surrounding counties. The Snyder Fire Department has partnered with the Sweetwater Fire Department to provide a regional wind turbine rescue capability.

Our departments maintain:

  • Specialized wind turbine rescue equipment
  • A dedicated wind turbine rescue trailer
  • Training for operations on turbines exceeding 250 feet in height

These efforts ensure rapid and safe response to emergencies on tall structures.

Swiftwater Rescue

While rare, the department responds to swiftwater emergencies during flash flooding events. Vehicles and occupants swept away by moving water require prompt, specialized rescue operations.

The department maintains a trailer with limited swiftwater equipment and personnel trained in swiftwater rescue procedures.