Forcible entry tools can be grouped into several categories. What is one?

Forcible entry tools are essential for firefighters to gain access to a building in emergency situations. One major category of these tools is striking tools. Striking tools are designed to impact and break through barriers, such as doors or windows, using force. Examples of striking tools include the axe, sledgehammer, and battering ram. These tools efficiently apply concentrated force to an object to break it or force it open.

The effectiveness of striking tools is particularly important in situations where time is critical, and firefighters need to gain entry quickly to rescue individuals or combat a fire. Their ability to deliver powerful blows makes them a primary choice for many forcible entry scenarios.

Other categories of forcible entry tools exist, such as twisting and crushing tools, but striking tools are uniquely designed to emphasize the impact needed for immediate access, setting them apart as a versatile and vital asset in firefighting operations.