Hurst Update

Support Citizens Hose Company in our effort to upgrade to modern HURST electric-over-hydraulic rescue tools — including the Jaws of Life, spreaders, cutters, and rams.

Our current rescue tools are an older, corded hydraulic system that requires a separate power unit and extended hose lines. While they have served us well, they are heavier, slower to deploy, and dependent on managing multiple lines around unstable vehicles. In today’s vehicle construction — with advanced high-strength steels, reinforced pillars, and electric vehicle components — older equipment can struggle to keep pace. Setup time matters at serious motor vehicle crashes, and every added step increases risk to both patients and rescuers.

Modern HURST battery-powered electric-over-hydraulic tools eliminate the need for external power units and long hydraulic hoses. They deploy faster, reduce scene clutter, improve mobility around vehicles, and allow our crews to operate more efficiently in tight spaces or challenging terrain. These tools provide greater cutting force and reliability, giving our firefighters the capability needed for today’s vehicles and tomorrow’s emergencies.

Importantly, these tools will not serve only our primary response area in Jersey Shore. Citizens Hose Company regularly provides mutual aid across municipal lines and along heavily traveled roadways throughout the region. Our rescue equipment is requested at serious crashes beyond our first-due territory, meaning this investment strengthens emergency response capabilities for multiple communities — not just one.

Upgrading to modern rescue tools is about reducing extrication time, increasing firefighter safety, and improving patient outcomes across our entire response region. Your support ensures we are prepared to meet the growing demands of technical rescue with equipment that matches the challenges we face.