Tiny Tool Breaks Windows To Save Lives

ST. JOHNS COUNTY, FL -- Some first responders on the First Coast now have new tools to help them on the scenes of traffic crashes, trapped infants in cars, and even submerged vehicles.

The tool is called Resqume. It's pronounced "rescue me." It can fit in the palm of your hand and can attach to an officer's key chain.

The Resqume is designed to break vehicle windows and can also cut seat belts.

Sgt. Steve Briggs with the St. Johns County Sheriff's Office was recently patrolling the beach when he was called to help a baby who had been accidentally locked in a car.

Briggs said, "Meanwhile, the mother, who was frantic at the time, was insistent we go ahead and break the window." Breaking the window can sometimes be dangerous, sending glass everywhere.

However, the three-inch-long Resqume, when applied to the window, can break in quickly and cleanly.

Bozard Ford donated $1,500 to equip 150 deputies with the devices. Some personnel with the St. Johns County Sheriff's Office hope to find a way to equip all the deputies with the Resqume. As for Briggs, three days after he received his Resqume, he got the call about the baby. Briggs went to the scene, and the little tool worked. The glass broke in a centralized area away from the child.

Briggs said, "The child was just fine. Never disturbed. The mother was very grateful. She didn't have any issues with the broken window and everybody had a good beach day."

The devices can also work underwater and are reusable.