MIDDLETOWN – The Middletown Rancheria of Pomo Indians has provided the necessary funding to the South Lake County Volunteer Firefighters Association for the purchase of additional state-the-art lifesaving equipment.

Acquired was the device commonly known as the “Jaws of Life,” and it is now available through South Lake County Fire Department’s First Responders.  

The purchased device, known as a Parrot Blade Cutter, is used in rescue operations where high strength and rapid response are required.

This tool has a cutting force of more than 150,000 pounds, and replaces an existing tool that delivers 50,000 pounds of cutting force. It is also smaller, lighter and faster than the older device.

“The purchase of this replacement rescue tool provided by the members of the Middletown Rancheria is another testament to our collaborative effort in providing the community’s fire, rescue and EMS personnel the tools they need for improved emergency response,” said Mike Wink, fire captain for Training and Unit EMS coordinator.

Jose Simon III, tribal chairman for the Middletown Rancheria, said the tribe is proud to continue its support of the county’s fire, rescue and EMS services.

“South Lake County depends so much on the unit’s training and equipment, and anything we can do to help is of the highest priority to us,” said Simon.

Middletown Rancheria owns Twin Pine Casino & Hotel.  The casino has operated a Las Vegas-style gaming facility of the latest slot machines and table games for the past 14 years. The Rancheria recently opened its 107,000-square-foot new casino/hotel/event center complex at its current Middletown location.