To force open a door, a rescuer should place the spreaders on which side?

To force open a door, a rescuer should place the spreaders on which side?

• A. the latch side
• B. either the latch side or hinge side
• C. the hinge side
• D. the top edge

Answer: (B)

Forcible entry with spreaders is about creating outward force to separate the door from the frame. You can place the spreaders on the latch side to drive back the lock bolts and push the door open, or on the hinge side to spread the hinge area and pull the door away from the jamb. The top edge isn’t used because it doesn’t provide proper leverage and can cause poor contact, binding, or damage. Because door construction and scene conditions vary, using either the latch side or the hinge side depending on accessibility and effectiveness is the practical approach.

Forcible entry with spreaders is about creating outward force to separate the door from the frame. You can place the spreaders on the latch side to drive back the lock bolts and push the door open, or on the hinge side to spread the hinge area and pull the door away from the jamb. The top edge isn’t used because it doesn’t provide proper leverage and can cause poor contact, binding, or damage. Because door construction and scene conditions vary, using either the latch side or the hinge side depending on accessibility and effectiveness is the practical approach.