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PRESS RELEASE
An enhanced rescue hoist glove will soon be available for first responders. The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Science and Technology Directorate (S&T) collaborated with Higher Dimension Materials, Inc. (HDM) and the North Carolina State University Textile Protect and Comfort Center to identify and develop the best materials with which to create a more durable and flexible glove for rescue hoist operations.
Helicopter hoist rescues can take place over water, the sides of mountains, or other hazardous environments. Gloves protect responders’ hands from injury when guiding the hoist cable during rescue descents and ascents. Hoist operators handle the cable with significant force to prevent swinging, and the friction can cause gloves to wear exposing their hands to injury or creating debris that can compromise the cable system. Previous versions of the hoist glove would only last one or two rescue hoists before fraying. Responders needed gloves that could las