Who would ever think that the symbol of a lifelong committed relationship could ever pose a safety risk? Anyone who has served in the emergency field might have had that thought cross their mind from time to time.
More traditional wedding rings – those made of gold or silver – are easy enough to snip off of someone’s finger if need be. But more modern rings made of serinium (vitalium), tungsten carbide and ceramic don’t easily cut.
In the case of a hand trauma, emergency personnel could be hard pressed to get the ring off before the victim loses their finger.
For that reason, White City jeweler G. Alan’s Fine Jewelry, in partnership with Jewelry Innovations, has donated 17 ring crackers, a tool specifically designed to safely remove rings. They’re so-named because of the cracking noise they make when in use.
The jeweler is also donating silicone wedding bands to all active firefighters who wish to wear a symbol of their love without risking their metal band.
“Our goal in donating these ring crackers and silicone bands is to bring awareness to ring safety,” said Janessa Harden, of G. Alan’s Fine Jewelry, in a statement released by the St. Lucie County Fire District, “as well as educating our community on where to go to safely remove rings they cannot remove themselves and offer a safe alternative. We suggest people who are in need of this service find a local fire station or trusted jeweler.”
Fire Chief Nate Spera told St. Lucie Voice that he – on behalf of the district – appreciates the gift from G. Alan’s Fine Jewelry. When he was first approached about the ring crackers, he said he requested just a few – four or five – to have placed strategically around the county. Instead, the jeweler offered up a ring cracker for each of the county’s 17 fire stations.
Chief Spera said hand injuries requiring ring removal happen a “few times a year at most, but when it happens …” his voice trailed off, and he sighed.
The donation will be officially presented at the next Fire District Board meeting on Wednesday, June 20, at 3 p.m. The meeting will be held in the chambers at the St. Lucie County Fire District Administration, 5160 NW Milner Drive, Port St. Lucie.
- Alan’s Fine Jewelry has been actively supporting the community for years, as do numerous other businesses and groups.
Chief Spera said that the agency appreciates all the support it gets from the community, which supplements the support the district receives via grants and other governmental avenues. To that end, the district is pursuing a safety boat in partnership with the St. Lucie County Sheriff’s Office and is working through the grant process. “There are always things we’re looking for,” Chief Spera said.
Anyone interested in how they can support the Fire District is encouraged to contact Brenda Stokes, executive aide, at 772-621-3333.