Adjustable Window Punch- a subset of Extrication & Escape

Introduction

Extrication refers to the process of removing a victim from a collapsed structure, whether natural or artificial . Examples include: motor vehicles, buildings, infrastructure, or natural disaster such as flood, mudslide, hurricane or tornado.
Escape refers to the process by which an individual or group of persons attempt to avoid a confrontation with disaster. The scenarios may often be the same as Extrication scenarios.

Entry/ Exit Tools are devices that aid in the process of creating a path between the rescuer and the victim or between the victim ( escapee) and safe haven. In addition, certain tools are intended to aid the professional with the process of containing property damage and risk to life.
Since physical obstructions are common in blocking the way- primitive tools such as axes, lever bars, rakes and hammers are effective in breaking down doors, windows, ceilings, walls and floors as well as to stem the expansion of a life threatening element such as fire or flood. For the professional rescuer, the ability to mitigate catastrophic escalation of damage is also important. For this reason the toolset of the fireman or other rescue professional include the ability to turn off gas, water and electric mains. In the case of some of these tools , they may me multifunctional allowing an axe to also be a lever and a valve shut-off tool.

EMI Adjustable Window Punch - a subset of Extrication & Escape

Description

A little tool with a big punch – shatters tempered glass effortlessly! Adjust power handle for a lighter or heavier punch.

The EMI Adjustable Window Punch is primarily intended as a center punch for indenting metal surfaces, including steel. This is typically done so as to provide a firm 'start' for drill bits. In addition, the EMI Adjustable Window Punch is excellent for use as an emergency window punch.

The 'use case' is based on the principle that tempered automotive glass is not easy to break with impact tools ( such as a hammer) alone. However, a powerful strike localized at a pin-point and delivered suddenly, is enough to de-stress or shatter a pane of tempered glass.
Such force may be delivered by one of various methods:
- Stabbing method (force of a fist stabbing)
- Flicking method (force of a levered flick)
- Spring action (force of compressed energy from a spring)
- High velocity projectile (bullets)

Properly implemented, the spring action method delivers the necessary force with the minimum effort or training on the part of the operator.
Process:
The handle is grasped in the palm of the strong hand while the point is positioned and stabilized with the weak hand against the pane of glass. Forward pressure is then applied by the strong hand- causing the device to transfer energy suddenly to the point of contact. At that stage, the glass should shatter, the initial force spreading to the entire pane in a 'Domino Effect' . The final step in the breech is to remove the shattered glass so that the subject may be extracted from the vehicle.

Task Performance Optimization
Very Good- Properly adjusted to the maximum level for the intended operator the EMI Adjustable Window Punch has a very high success rate in the order of 95%. There are two factors impinging on success:
- Pressure should be pre-adjusted for the strength of the operator
- Because there is no inherit stabilization at the point, operators must be sure to grasp the entire circumference of the shaft in the guiding hand, so that slippage is minimized

Usability & Human Factors
This device is semi-intuitive. Usage is nearly self-evident and training is easy to perform.

Specifications:
EMI Adjustable Window Punch with Power Control Handle
Item# 1078
Features and Specifications:
• Easy-to-grip, one-handed punching power to shatter tempered glass
• Adjustable power handle for light or heavy punch, depending on the setting
• Knurled stainless steel body
• Hardened steel point for maximum efficiency
• Easy to use
• Measures approximately 5-1⁄2"L x 5/8"D
• Fits most holsters, jump kits, etc.

Cost- $5.99 Source: