HomeMy WebLinkAboutGovt_CSFD-AxeThe Firefighter’s Axe
One of a firefighter’s most basic tools, the Firefighter’s Axe, has been a staple since the beginning of organized firefighting efforts. At least one axe is still
carried on every piece of firefighting apparatus (fire trucks) and is used today by the entry team at a structure fire. The axe serves two main purposes – as a means of breeching a
door or window to forcibly gain access into a burning structure, and to chop a hole in a wall or the roof of the structure to effect ventilation (allow the smoke to escape). This particular
axe is called a “pick head” axe, because of the point on the opposite side of the blade.
Displayed here is a “Golden Axe”. As a symbol to equip a firefighter with this basic tool for
the rest of his or her life, the College Station Fire Department awards this Golden Axe to a member who honorably retires. A plate is engraved with the retiree’s name and the dates
of their fire service to the City.
Courtesy: College Station Fire Department
Source: Bart Humphreys, CSFD Public Information Officer, 2013