What is used to control glass in tempered windows during rescues?

In emergency rescue situations involving tempered glass, a center punch is utilized to create a small, controlled break in the glass. When tempered glass is impacted, it shatters into small, blunt pieces that are less likely to cause injury. The center punch allows firefighters to strategically target a specific area of the glass, making it easier to start a break without risking unnecessary hazards. This precise impact weakens the structure of the tempered glass, making it more manageable to remove or break further for rescue operations.

Other tools like glass breakers, rescue axes, and cutting tools have different primary applications. While a glass breaker is designed specifically to shatter glass, the center punch gives firefighters the control needed for precise breaks in challenging rescue scenarios. Understanding the function of the center punch equips rescuers with the skills to safely and effectively manage tempered glass during emergencies, enhancing their ability to perform rescues in a safe manner.