By: Rex Morris
Proper technique, knowledge of door construction and locks are required to force heavy steel doors that are highly secured. There are several ways to force these doors: conventional (axe and halligan), through the lock and power tools. The proper method to use is based on the nature of the call. In a fire situation, when you have to get in fast, conventional forcible-entry using the axe and halligan - referred to as the "Irons" - is the quickest and most reliable method.
It is also important to keep the halligan properly "dressed." This means keeping the tool clean with the Pike pointed - and the Adz and Fork ends filed-down to a thin, sharp bevel with a blunted edge (Figures 1 and 2).
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