Firefighters put out fires and protect people, buildings, and nature; this noble profession is difficult and dangerous. Firefighters use tools, knowledge, and equipment to stay safe. Learning all that goes into this job should make you appreciate these brave firefighters even more.
Lots of Training
Firefighters stay safe in the field by applying knowledge and skills learned in training. Becoming a firefighter requires dedication and moxie, and trainees must be aware of the risks. Firefighters undergo rigorous and extensive training, and they cover the following points during training:
- Tool safety
- Physical readiness
- Emergency procedures
Education is the best way firefighters can stay safe when combatting something so dangerous.
Thoroughly Tested Equipment
Testing and using reliable equipment are other ways firefighters stay safe. For example, firefighters use many tools to put out fires, but they could be in greater danger if that equipment isn’t up to code. A faulty firehose could halt the fire crew’s efforts of dousing a burning house. Fire-resistant clothing must be effective in all situations, and thorough testing is the only way to ensure that is the case. Manufacturers test equipment and gear to ensure it’s up to code, and firefighters should regularly inspect their tools and gear to ensure everything is in good condition.
Fire Shelters
As stated previously, firefighters use many tools to stay safe, whether they’re in a building or out in the wild. Sometimes, wildland firefighters can get caught by these flames, which is why they carry fire shelters. Fire shelters are made from aluminum foil, silica cloth, and fiberglass. These materials reflect heat away from the user while they use knowledge from their training to stay safe. In these intense moments, a fire shelter can be the difference between life and death.
Firefighters stay safe in different ways, and they must use tools to help them perform this challenging job. Without these tools and techniques, firefighting would be much more difficult and dangerous. Fortunately, this job is manageable thanks to equipment and gear that protects firefighters.