Which type of wood is commonly used for cribbing?

Softwood, specifically southern yellow pine, is commonly used for cribbing due to its favorable properties in rescue scenarios. This type of wood is lightweight yet strong, which makes it manageable for rescuers to handle while still providing sufficient strength to support heavy loads. Southern yellow pine also has good compressive strength and can withstand the weight of vehicles that may be resting on it, making it an ideal choice for stabilizing vehicles during rescue operations.

Hardwoods like oak, while strong, are significantly denser and heavier, which can complicate handling in emergency situations. Plywood and composite wood materials are not typically used for cribbing because they may not provide the same level of strength and reliability under load compared to solid wood options. Plywood, for example, could delaminate under stress, and composite materials might not have the necessary strength characteristics for safe use in rescues. Therefore, the use of southern yellow pine aligns with the balance of strength, weight, and ease of handling crucial for effective cribbing in emergencies.