Firefighting Equipment Used by Firefighters

Here is a list of some of the equipment used by firefighters. As we all know, firefighting is one of the most risk-ridden jobs that one can imagine. Firefighters use certain essential equipment or gear to protect themselves from extreme hazards caused by fire. While there are devices which help in search and rescue operations, there are several other equipments used during medical emergencies. Technological advancements in the field have resulted in the creation of new firefighting devices.

· Personal Protection Equipment

A set of Personal protection equipment or ''''PPE'''' is given to every firefighter. Personal protection equipment mainly comprises protective gear such as jackets, pants & boots. Typically, a jacket and pant consists of a three-layer design with reflective stripes on the heat or tear resistant shell. The boots contain a steel insole which helps in preventing the firefighter''''s foot from being cut by nails or other debris.

· Self-contained breathing apparatus

Another important equipment which is a must-have for every firefighter is the "self-contained breathing apparatus" or SCBA. The self-contained breathing apparatus constitutes a canister that enables the firefighter to breathe for 15 to 60 minutes based on the level of activity he is involved in. The SCBA also has a Personal Alarm Safety System which gets activated after 30 seconds of non-movement. This device helps firefighters to call for help in case of urgency when they can''''t make it over the radio.

· Firetruck

Fire truck is a vital equipment that basically helps in the collection and distribution of water. It also transports firefighters and holds all their requisite equipments such as first aid gear, water fittings, hoses and ancillary gear.

· Gear

The other types of gear used by firefighters include axes, shovels and pipe poles to examine the ceilings and walls of buildings for rolling fires. A firefighter also carries 150 feet of rope which is used to transport equipment from end-to-end in search and rescue operations.

· Accessories

Firefighters also use a variety of protective accessories such as specialized boots, leather work gloves to heat-resistant gloves, Nomex hoods, wristlets and different kinds of goggles.Hoses of varying sizes, ranging from 1 to 4 inches in diameter, are used depending on the circumstances.