Multiple Houston-area fire departments put DeWalt tools to the test at recent product demonstrations.
Both the Pasadena Volunteer Fire Department and the Humble Volunteer Fire Department tested six DeWalt products: the 60V Chainsaw (DCCS670), the 60V Reciprocating Saw (DCS388), the 60V Quickie Saw (DCS690), the 20V Metal Cutting Shears (DCS491), the 4 Port Fast Charger (DCB104), and the 20V Tripod Light (DCL079).
The fire departments both wanted to experience and test the strength, durability, and power of the tools firsthand in real-life emergency scenarios.
“This (DeWalt) product demo gives us a chance to try out new products in real-world scenarios. We’re always looking for new and better tools for our toolbox,” one firefighter in Pasadena explained.
(Using these cordless tools), “you don’t have to think about this… you just pop the battery in and go to work,” another firefighter excitedly explained about why he thought the DeWalt cordless tools were so useful and essentially better than many of the current tools they were using.
United Tool and Fastener (UTF) salesmen, Jeremy Porter and Chris Smith, in addition to several DeWalt representatives, were at the demonstrations to show and explain to the firefighters exactly how each of the tools worked and what made them unique.
“My crews and I were impressed with the durability and functionality of all the (DeWalt) tools demonstrated,” Pasadena Fire Chief Justin Cox said
“The blades were outstanding on the circular saws and reciprocating saw. There is something to say about a blade that can cut through exposed hinges on a vehicle in a matter of seconds, LITERALLY!”
Multiple firefighters excitedly shouted to each other about how they liked particular tools because they were lighter than the similar tools presently being utilized, they were easier to manage (due to a lack of cords), and were more powerful (thus making it faster to get people out of dangerous situations).
“The ease of use with these tools was impeccable. Having the ability to hop off a truck and grab a battery-powered tool, with significant power and battery life, will surely allow us to gain access or complete jobs faster and more efficiently on the fire ground,” Cox explained further.
DeWalt tools tested:
60V Chainsaw (DCCS670)
The FLEXVOLT 60V MAX* Chainsaw features tool-free chain tensioning and a bar-tightening knob to enable proper bar clamping force, and also features auto-oiling for continuous lubrication. The kit includes a FLEXVOLT 20V/60V MAX* battery that powers 60V MAX* tools and is compatible to work with 20V MAX* tools.
60V Reciprocating Saw (DCS388)
The DCS388B is maximized for runtime and durability. It delivers the power of a corded reciprocating saw with the portability and convenience of a cordless saw. The DCS388B is the tool only. The FLEXVOLT 20V/60V MAX* lithium ion battery and fast charger are sold separately.
The FLEXVOLT 60V MAX* Cordless Brushless Cut-Off Saw makes cuts up to 3-1/4-in. deep and features a high-performance brushless motor that provides up to 6,500 RPM with instant-on functionality. The saw enables fast and efficient single-pass cuts and scores in concrete, pavestones, steel, and rebar. A rotatable, five-position guard allows selection of approach angle for optimal visibility and accessibility when cutting in tight spaces. The saw can be used to cut in both horizontal and vertical positions. In addition, a new heavy load indicator light provides the user with power and runtime feedback. Furthermore, the saw is Tool Connect™ Tag-Ready™ (Tool Connect Tag sold separately).
20V Metal Cutting Shears (DCS491)
4 Port Fast Charger (DCB104)
This charger is a four-port fast charger that charges 12V MAX*, 20V MAX*, and FLEXVOLT® 20V/60V MAX* batteries at the same time. It quickly charges a 4.0Ah 20V MAX* battery in 40 minutes and a 6.0Ah 20V MAX* battery in 60 minutes. It also fits the Tool Connect™ Tag and is ToughSystem™ compatible.
20V Tripod Light (DCL079)
The DEWALT 20V MAX* Cordless Tripod Light illuminates a workspace in the toughest jobsite conditions. It's built for incredible durability in use, storage, or transport. Cutting edge LED technology provides extended runtime and natural white light and eliminates the hazardous heat of halogen. Variable brightness settings up to 3,000 lumens enable customized illumination for a work area. The compact design with carry handle provides easy portability, and it sets up in seconds.
To learn more about the DEWALT® tools used in the demonstrations or buy the products, please contact a UTF showroom in Houston at 713-692-2323; in San Antonio at 210-495-8665; or in College Station at 979-731-8665. Watch some of the product demonstrations below.
