What tool is recommended for breaking tempered glass during rescue operations?

During rescue operations, breaking tempered glass requires a specific approach due to the nature of the glass, which is designed to shatter into small, less harmful pieces rather than break into sharp shards. The spring-loaded center punch is particularly effective for this task because it uses a precise, controlled force to create an initial fracture in the glass. When applied, the tool's spring mechanism delivers a rapid, strong impact at a single point, making it easier to weaken the glass and facilitate a break.

This method minimizes the risk of injury to the rescuer and those they are trying to help, as it allows for a targeted strike that can create a clean break while reducing flying shards. Other tools, while potentially useful in different contexts, do not provide the same level of precision or safety for breaking tempered glass. For example, a multi-tool or hammer may not offer the concentrated force necessary for the effective shattering of tempered glass, while a car jack is designed for lifting and supporting vehicles rather than breaking glass.