Grant Awarded to SLV Fire Districts for Crash Response and Extrication Improvements
The Zayante Fire Protection District announced that San Lorenzo Valley fire districts have received a $160,500 Regional Crash Response and Extrication Improvement Program grant from the California Office of Traffic Safety (OTS) to purchase new emergency extrication equipment. Awarded in October 2025, the grant supports: Zayante, Boulder Creek, Felton, and Ben Lomond Fire Protection Districts.
The funding enables the districts to acquire modern, electric extrication tool kits — including a spreader, cutter, and ram — that replace aging 2006 equipment. These battery-powered tools eliminate the need for hydraulic cables or separate power units, allowing firefighters to remove victims more quickly by separating the vehicle from the patient without hose-line limitations. Boulder Creek Volunteer Fire Department will also receive a new vehicle stabilization kit featuring multiple struts and accessories to secure vehicles before extrication begins.
This investment enhances emergency response capabilities across the San Lorenzo Valley, where volunteer fire districts collectively serve more than 35,000 residents and over one million annual visitors to local State Parks and recreation areas.
Introducing the new program, Zayante Fire Chief Jeff Maxwell highlighted the importance of faster, more effective extrication during the “golden hour” — the critical time between injury and emergency room intervention. “Commonly known as the ‘Jaws of Life,’ this upgrade gives our community more powerful, water-resistant, battery-powered tools with smart dashboard displays providing real-time feedback and 134,900 pounds of spreading force,” Maxwell said. “The award recognizes the courage, passion, and perseverance of our volunteer firefighters who show us every day that they are innovative and committed to doing everything they can to protect life and property in our mountain communities.”
Featured photo: Zayante and Ben Lomond volunteer firefighters work to extricate a victim of a vehicle accident with the Jaws Of Life in May 2025. Photo courtesy of Zayante Fire Protection District
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