Hurst Jaws of Life rescue systems have been instrumental in saving thousands of lives throughout their 30 year history. From race track beginnings in 1972 to the rescue heroes of today, Jaws of Life systems travel with more than 35,000 rescue squads, fire and police departments throughout the world.
Originally manufactured by Hurst Performance Inc, in Warminster, PA, the tool was developed for use in the race car industry. Hurst Performance also manufactured the famous Hurst Shifter which was used extensively in race cars. The original tool was a two-part system consisting of a 32-inch hydraulic spreader powered by a two cycle gasoline power unit. When activated, the scissor-like spreaders opened and forced crushed metal away from trapped victims. Because the tool reduced the time to extricate a victim from a car crash, literally snatching them from the "jaws of death", the tool earned the name Jaws of Life. Today, Jaws of Life is a registered trademark of Hale Products Inc.
During the past 30 years the Jaws of Life product line has grown significantly. New spreaders, cutters, rams, and very lightweight tools have been added to the world-renowned line. In 2005, Vetter pneumatic products was acquired to add high and low pressure airbags and many hazmat products. In 2006 Airshore International was acquired and brings to the Jaws of Life family of products quality shoring products. Continuous development of the product line continues in both the pneumatic and hydraulic areas as the Company strives to provide the finest, most reliable rescue products to its customers.
Searching for new opportunities for growth, Hale Products Inc acquired the Hurst Jaws of Life® line of rescue tools in 1984. Developed originally for the extrication of race car drivers, the Jaws of Life has become the preferred rescue tool of fire and rescue departments as well as the military.
In 1992, Hale joined with the UK based Godiva Group of Manufacturing companies to form Hale Products Inc. Godiva, formed in 1937, produces truck mount, custom, diesel, and portable pumps to exacting European standards. In addition to augmenting and solidifying Hale's distributor network, the Godiva Group will contribute its technology and expertise to further support international expansion efforts.
In 1996, Hale joined with LUKAS Gmbh, a German manufacturer of rescue tools, re-railing equipment, and hydraulic equipment. This union gave Hale a stronghold in rescue equipment in Europe where LUKAS is a predominant manufacturer of hydraulic rescue equipment.
With the formation of Hale Products Europe, and Hale Products Asia, the company has committed more resources to serving the important European and Asian markets. As the company continues its expansion, Hale remains committed to providing innovative, quality products to its customers worldwide.
In 1994, Hale was acquired by IDEX Corporation. IDEX is a manufacturer of proprietary fluid handling equipment. Other IDEX units include Warren Rupp, Lubriquip, and Viking Pump. The synergy created from this acquisition has enabled Hale Products Inc. to expand its position as the world's leading provider of emergency services equipment in applications such as defense, rescue, firefighting, and industry. With well-know trademarks such as Jaws of Life® , Hale® Pumps, Hurst® , Hurst Centaur®, FoamMaster and CAFSMaster® , Vetter, and Airshore, products manufactured by Hale have a high recognition for dependability and quality.
