If you are not a firefighter, you may not recognize the above object which is found in the HCI logo.  Called the “Halligan Tool,” it was invented in the 1940’s by FDNY Deputy Chief Hugh Halligan (grandfather of HCI principal Sean Halligan).

The Halligan Tool is a forcible entry tool and is nicknamed “the universal key.”   It is often stored and used with an axe, collectively referred to as a set of “irons” by firefighters.

The Halligan Tool is a firefighter favorite worldwide.  It combines the benefits of many tools into one lightweight versatile tool assembled to allow the user to perform numerous tasks.   The tool is approximately 30 inches long and weighs 8 lbs.  It was originally made of one solid piece of steel in order to provide the firefighter the strongest and safest tool possible.  The fork end of the tool resembles a crowbar.  The head was a revolutionary design made up of the “adz” and pick along with 3 flat striking surfaces. 

There are several theories as to how the tool came to be.  One story is that a similar shaped pry bar was found at the scene of a bank robbery.  The story from now-deceased Chief Halligan himself was that his men desperately needed better equipment to properly gain entry into burning buildings.  His requests to the FDNY brass for something better continued to go unanswered.  It was only after 24 hours of praying “Hail Mary's” that the idea for the tool came to him, and the rest….is history.  Chief Halligan also went on to invent the Halligan Hook which is primarily used to rip down ceilings. 

Halligan Claims Investigations…….Our Experience Is Your Best Tool 

SEE THE HALLIGAN TOOL IN ACTION ON YOU TUBE!

1.  Multiple forcible entry techniques:            http://youtube.com/watch?v=-Uor16OYmKs&feature=related

2.  Good example of the 3 striking surfaces:  http://youtube.com/watch?v=cgJbdjy3Cdk&feature=related

3.  Quick automobile entry:                             http://youtube.com/watch?v=QzunM3QmjQE&feature=related