Demystifying Firefighter Turnout Gear

Uncover the essential components of firefighter gear, and why understanding them are so important for proper, safe firefighter rehabilitation. If you're an EMT but NOT a firefighter, knowing this may just help you save someone's life...

Understanding the Layers of Firefighter Turnout Gear

Firefighter turnout gear consists of multiple layers designed to protect the firefighter from heat, flames, and other hazardous conditions. Each layer serves a specific purpose and contributes to the overall effectiveness of the gear.

1. The outermost layer, known as the external shell, is typically made of a durable material such as Nomex or Kevlar. This layer protects the firefighter from flames, and provides abrasion resistance (helping to protect against punctures and tears). It also helps initially to repel water and other liquids (which usually beads off), at least until the gear is saturated.
2. Beneath the external shell is the moisture barrier. This layer is waterproof and breathable, allowing sweat to escape while preventing water from entering. It helps to keep the firefighter dry and comfortable during prolonged exposure to moisture.
3. Next is the thermal barrier, which provides insulation against heat. It is usually made of materials such as aramid fibers or treated fabrics that can withstand high temperatures. The thermal barrier helps to prevent burns and heat transfer to the firefighter's skin.
4. The innermost layer of turnout gear is the liner. This layer is soft and comfortable, providing a barrier between the firefighter's skin and the other layers. It also helps to wick away moisture and regulate body temperature.

Understanding the function of each layer of firefighter turnout gear is crucial for firefighters as it allows them to make informed decisions about when to use certain gear and how to properly maintain and care for it.

Exploring the Different Pieces of Turnout Gear

Firefighter gear (including SCBAs, PASS devices, etc.) get explained during a WearARMR training.

Firefighter turnout gear consists of several different pieces, each serving a specific purpose in protecting the firefighter from various hazards. Knowing the ins and outs of this gear is crucial, as most firefighter deaths are from cardiac arrest and do NOT happen inside of an active fire. The first medical responders to a downed firefighter may be non-firefighter EMTs! That's why we go over all of these pieces of equipment and more in our WearARMR training.

• The jacket is the outermost garment and provides overall protection to the upper body. It is typically equipped with reflective strips for visibility and may have additional features such as pockets for storing tools and equipment. It is usually also equipped with a drag rescue device, something about which few non-firefighters know!
• The pants with suspenders are designed to protect the lower body, including the legs and waist. They are usually equipped with knee reinforcements and may have adjustable suspenders for a secure fit.
• Boots are an essential component of turnout gear, providing protection to the feet and ankles. They are typically made of heat-resistant materials and have slip-resistant soles to ensure stability on uneven surfaces.
• The helmet protects the firefighter's head from falling debris and impact. It is equipped with a face shield or visor to shield the face from heat, flames, and smoke.
• Gloves are crucial for protecting the hands and maintaining dexterity. Unfortunately these jobs are often mutually exclusive (leading to much frustration and/or improper protection). They are usually made of heat-resistant materials and provide a secure grip on tools and equipment.
• The mask, often referred to as a self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA), provides respiratory protection by supplying clean air to the firefighter. It filters out harmful gases, smoke, and particles, allowing the firefighter to breathe safely in hazardous environments.
• The hood is worn under the helmet to protect the neck and ears from heat and flames. It is made of fire-resistant material and helps to reduce the risk of burns.

Each piece of turnout gear plays a vital role in ensuring the firefighter's safety and protection during emergency incidents.

Importance of Proper Gear Knowledge in Firefighter Rehabilitation

Having a thorough understanding of firefighter gear components is crucial for firefighter rehabilitation during and after emergency incidents. However: unless they're a firefighter themselves, most EMTs do not fully understand the layers of firefighter gear. Many or most EMTs (even those responsible for firefighter rehab) will go for years or whole careers without actually touching turnout gear. That's why our training focuses on hands-on engagement with the equipment, including using the drag rescue device, donning and doffing turnout gear, and an interactive demonstration of firefighter down CPR.

Understanding the layers of turnout gear helps firefighters to assess the condition of their gear and identify any damage or wear that may compromise its effectiveness. This allows for timely repairs or replacements, reducing the risk of injury. Damage to gear can also help EMTs judge the severity and type of mechanism of injury incurred by a firefighter, or give an indication that a downed firefighter is not injured but ill.

In emergency incident rehabilitation, proper gear knowledge enables EMTs who recognize signs of heat stress or other physical strain to take appropriate measures, such as removing layers of gear to prevent further harm. In the event a firefighter is in cardiac arrest or otherwise unresponsive, knowing about the different layers of gear could help an EMT save a life.

By having a comprehensive understanding of turnout gear, EMTs can prioritize the safety and well-being of firefighters during emergency incidents, and act with confidence when seconds matter.