Firefighter Gear Information
Firefighters wear protective gear, which can weigh as much as sixty pounds. Safety gear commonly includes thick pants and a jacket known as "Bunker Gear," a helmet, mask, and a breathing apparatus. The tools and portable water packs firefighters use when fighting various types of fire add to both the protection and weight a firefighter must pack while fighting a fire, or performing in an emergency rescue situation.
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Air Packs
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A firefighter air pack is a self-contained breathing apparatus. Firefighters call this life saving piece of gear "SCBA" gear pronounced like the word scuba. The air pack is attached to the firefighter's back, with a hose and mouthpiece leading to the facemask. When the air pack starts to run low, a bell dings repeatedly alerting the firefighter of low oxygen levels, and to leave the smoke-filled area immediately.
Bunker Gear
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Bunker gear is the lined protective coat and suspender pants, which all firefighters must wear. This type of gear comes in various colors, which are determined by the particular fire department or municipality. Steel-toed boots complete the required safety gear ensemble that firefighters wear. Many firefighters also wear a protective hood, which protects the head under the helmet, as well as the back of the neck. The hood slides under the jacket collar, and is flame retardant. The bunker gear alone adds at least 30 pounds to the firefighter, but is a lifesaver no firefighter can do without in an emergency scenario.
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Hazardous Material Gear
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Hazardous material suits are lightweight protective one-piece suits specialized firefighters wear. When faced with a potential chemical or airborne bacteria agent, Haz-Mat certified fire crews wear this type of white or red suits to protect them while working in an emergency scenario. The suit includes gloves, and Velcro tape around the ankles to secure the suit to boots. A mask and air pack must be worn when in Haz-Mat gear.
Wildfire Gear
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Wildfire gear is commonly yellow and green, and designed for fighting brush fires, and forest fires. This gear weighs less than traditional bunker gear, but still protects the firefighter while fighting a fire. The colors are vibrant, and aid in keeping a visual on the firefighters in dangerous wildfire situations. When fighting a brush or forest fire, an "Indian Pack" is commonly worn. This portable water pack with a spraying hose is attached to the pack for fighting fire in areas where an engine hose can't reach. When full, this portable water pack weighs approximately 40 pounds.
The Helmet
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The firefighter's helmet is worn during all types of fires and rescues. Helmets differ in color depending upon the rank of the firefighter. All helmets are designed to protect the head, and feature a detachable mask for breathing through an air pack. The helmets are similar in style to a construction helmet, but are tested to provide protection in intense heat. The back of the helmets slope down toward the shoulders, for further protection of vulnerable body areas. Helmets also feature a neck strap, to keep the helmet in securely in place.
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References
- Photo Credit Tara Dodrill
