Protective Gear Used by Firefighters in Burning Buildings

​Despite being a risky, last-resort measure, there are times when a firefighter needs to enter a burning building. The principle reason for doing so is to potentially save a life that is in danger. One asset fire team members have on their side is triple-layer turnout gear, which has extreme fire-resistant properties. Pants and jackets are made from synthetic, engineered fabrics such as Aramid, Kevlar, and Nomex.

Boots are crafted from rubber or leather and have steel toes that offer the feet protection against falling debris. In addition to multiple fire-resistant layers, turnout pants often have leather cuffs and reinforced knees. They are typically stored scrunched into the boots at the station, so that the boots can simply be stepped into in one motion, with firefighters wasting minimal time before departing for a fire.

A turnout coat can weigh up to 20 pounds, as its constructed from many layers of fire-resistant material that also prevents moisture and heat from entering. The sleeves connect with thick gloves via wristlets, which keep the sleeves from sliding up and obstructing hand movements. Turnout coats are also fitted with reflective safety stripes, which ensure that firefighters keep in visual contact with one another in smoky and dark environments.

Firefighters wear hoods under helmets, which provide the neck, head, and ears with protection against burns. The helmets are secured by chin straps and have visors, which protect the eyes. They also have ear flaps. Firefighters also don a self-contained breathing apparatus face piece that connects with an air pack with a 45-minute oxygen bottle. It’s important to note that in higher-exertion scenarios, the oxygen may last as little as 15 minutes.

Another essential piece of equipment is the two-way radio, which allows team members to alert each other when assistance is needed or hazards arise, such as a collapsing floor or roof. Firefighters are also outfitted with a personal alerting safety system, a type of motion sensor that sounds an alarm when the firefighter fails to move for more than half a minute.

Next-generation technologies are constantly being developed, such as the C-Thru platform, which was adopted by the Menlo Park Fire Protection District in California. Designed by Qwake Technologies, it employs a thermal imaging system that is hands-free. It replaces the handheld thermal imaging camera that traditionally attaches to the air pack or belt.

The C-Thru navigator is helmet-mounted and contains an eye piece that hangs down, so firefighters can look through it. This enhances spatial awareness, particularly in limited-visibility situations. The system allows for hands-free radio communication and requests for help are accomplished through a press of a button on the device. All actions and incidents are recorded and live-streamed to commanders outside the fire permitter, allowing them to make informed tactical decisions.

Firefighters who enter buildings that are on fire are provided with every possible measure of support. This includes a rapid intervention team that can swap out masks and oxygen as required, and that also enters the building themselves to accomplish rescues and carry out unresponsive members of the firefighting team.

Dakota Ibrahim

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