Firefighters rely on tools and equipment to successfully accomplish many tasks. In order to respond and work in high stress situations, it is essential that all firefighters have an exceptional understanding of not only the tools available, but how to maintain and operate them in a safe and effective manner. Emphasis is placed on the firefighter during the fire academy to know every aspect of the tools described in this chapter. These tools will not only be the ones you will use to save a life, but they may also be the ones you use to save your own life.