Firefighter's wedge and deployment assembly therefor

Abstract

The assembly of the present invention provides a number of deployable wedges, each of which may incorporate a brightly colored, reflective surface to make the wedge easily locatable visually. Each wedge provides a series of alternating notches and ridges that are formed in opposing faces of each wedge to ensure positive engagement between a door and a doorframe. This notched configuration also ensures that one wedge, used in tandem with another wedge, is highly resistant to slippage of any kind between the two wedges. Each wedge utilizes a structural configuration that maximizes strength of the wedge while minimizing any extra weight, something that is to be avoided by firefighters who are already heavily burdened with other firefighting equipment and protective gear. This structural configuration allows each wedge to be used as a tool for turning a valve when such is desired or required. Lastly, the assembly of the present invention provides for a loop of rope to hook a wedge around a doorknob or the like, a rope clip, and a rope clip retention ring or a carabiner, or both, to readily and securely attach the assembly to a firefighter's belt.

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.