| Tactical assignments and training can be dangerous, | | | | covered with a non-conductive coating, such as plastic |
| especially when working around high voltage electricity. | | | | or rubber. |
| Insulated, non-conductive tools are crucial to safety | | | | Secondary Entry Tools |
| and to ensure minimal risk for both the operator and | | | | Designed for specialized entry or to effect secondary |
| their team. When looking for new SWAT entry tools, | | | | breaches, secondary entry tools usually feature only |
| finding the right tool for the right job is key. | | | | one head that is specifically designed for operations, |
| Bolt Cutters | | | | such as break and rake or mobile home entries. The |
| In SWAT operations where encountering fences or | | | | handles for these tools should not only be electrically |
| locks is anticipated, it is important to have the proper | | | | non-conductive, but should also be able to stand up to |
| tools. I is also important to keep in mind that, when | | | | fire without melting or distorting. A D-handle system, |
| severing hidden wires, they may contain live electrical | | | | which integrates an attached handgrip at the end of |
| current. Using insulated bolt cutters protects the user | | | | the handle, would also allow the operator greater |
| from deadly levels of voltage that could result in | | | | control over the tool, increase the overall |
| serious injury or death. Electrically non-conductive bolt | | | | effectiveness; a self-extinguishing handle that also |
| cutters come in different weights and sizes, with long | | | | resists glass shards would be an added bonus. |
| or shorter handles and varying jaw openings. Which | | | | Entry Rams |
| style is best depends on the nature of the operation | | | | Electrical non-conductivity is just as important for entry |
| and the user's preference, but weight and durability are | | | | rams as it is for pry bars and secondary entry tools. |
| always important factors to consider. | | | | When approaching an unsecured entrance the |
| Pry Bars | | | | operator cannot know for certain whether the power |
| For strength and durability most pry bars are | | | | is compromised due to explosions, fire or a bobby trap. |
| constructed of metal alloys or stainless steel which | | | | Since the ram will make first contact, it is imperative |
| may or may not be specially treated on the working | | | | that, at a minimum, the outside of the ram and the |
| ends of the tools. When selecting pry bars to be used | | | | handles be coated with an electrically non-conductive |
| in tactical operations, it is important to ensure that the | | | | material, such as plastic or rubber; a ram constructed |
| tools feature handles which consist of either a | | | | totally of non-sparking materials is preferable. |
| non-conductive material, such as fiberglass, or are | | | | |