When was the pike pole invented?

1600s
The humble pike pole’s entry into the U.S. fire service began in the 1600s when it was used to pull down walls and neighboring buildings in the path of a fire to stop the fire’s spread. Also known as a ceiling hook, the pike pole is the “hook” in a hook-and-ladder company, also known as a truck company.

Who created the pike pole?

The earliest resemblances to pike poles and hooks carried by today’s firefighters originated in Europe around the 12th century. They were developed to be used as weapons for soldiers. These earliest pike poles were refined by loggers and ice fisherman hundreds of years ago to meet the needs of their industry.

What is a pike fire?

Modern firefighting pike poles are usually of fiberglass, between 4 feet to 12 feet long, and used to search for fires hidden behind walls and ceilings, to pull items from intense heat and flames, and to ventilate structures by breaking windows.

What is a Clemens hook?

The Clemens Hook/Wrecking Tool II is an improved design of the original Clemens Hookthat has been field tested and proven to be a tool that makes Firefighting jobs a little easier. This tool gives the firefighter more versatility in doing many of todays firefighting jobs that now require several different tools.

What is a hook in firefighting?

The firefighter roof hook is one of the most versatile firefighter tools. The firefighter roof hook can be used to open ceilings, floors, and walls.

What is a Hux bar?

Hux bar — A multipurpose tool that can be used for several forcible entry and ventilation applications because of its unique design. It may also be used as a hydrant wrench.

What is a San Francisco hook?

SAN FRANCISCO HOOK ~ The hook used by the San Francisco Fire Department since the turn of the century. We streamlined the design and brought more function to its features. A sharpened edge and penetration point was added to the right angle along with large gripping teeth on the underside.

How big is a pike pole in firefighting?

Modern firefighting pike poles are usually of fiberglass, 4–12′ long, and used to search for fires hidden behind walls and ceilings, to pull items from intense heat and flames, and to ventilate structures by breaking windows. Also known as a ceiling hook of the day, the pike pole is the ‘hook’ referred to in ‘hook and ladder’ truck.

What was the original purpose of the pike pole?

The pole’s original use in the fire service was to pull down walls and neighboring buildings to stop a fire’s spread.

What kind of poles are used in firefighting?

Modern firefighting pike poles are usually of fiberglass, 4–12′ long, and used to search for fires hidden behind walls and ceilings, to pull items from intense heat and flames, and to ventilate structures by breaking windows. Also known as a ceiling hook of the day, the pike pole is the ‘hook’ referred to in ‘ hook and ladder ‘ truck.

How do you clean a firefighter’s pike pole?

After every use, clean dirt and other debris from the handle using a mild detergent and water solution, rinse completely with clear water, and wipe dry with a clean cloth. Give the handle a close visual inspection to identify any splintering, cracking or other damage.