Using Firefighting Axes in Emergency Situations

Based in Aurora, Illinois, Daniel Ahasic is a firefighter and paramedic who has almost two decades of experience providing essential community services. One aspect of firefighting that Daniel Ahasic is experienced in involves the use of fire axes. These include a variety of models and types, with pick head and flat head fire axes being most common.

Both types of axes may be used for breaking or smashing doors and windows as a way of gaining entry into a space. Ideal as a striking tool for forcible entry, the flat head comes in 6- to 8-pound sizes, with plastic and wood handle options. The wood handle is traditional and most common, because of its relative durability and strength in extreme situations. The pick head axe, on the other hand, enables an item to be punctured, with the handle employed for manipulation.

When forcing a door, a short and compact motion is recommended. This avoids the possibility of a glancing blow at an angle that can recoil against the firefighter. In ventilating a space, the fire fighter replaces the usual chopping or cutting motioning with a smashing technique that employs the axe’s back to hit the roof, wall, or floor and break through boards and shingles.