The Northshore Fire Protection District has received a $160,000 grant, part of nearly $3 million allocated statewide, from the California Office of Traffic Safety for new “jaws of life” rescue equipment and training. Fire Chief Shannon Banks emphasized that modern, hydraulic tools are vital for improved crash response and victim care. The grant addresses the challenge of older, slower tools—especially critical since federal data shows 42% of crash fatalities were alive when first responders arrived.