The deadly wildfire raging in Yosemite National Park has led to the death of one firefighter, and many others have been injured or temporarily evacuated from the fire. Fires are notoriously dangerous work environments, but some new technology could help firefighters keep themselves safe in these conditions. Here’s how Yosemite firefighters could use this new technology to battle the flames while keeping themselves safe.
Basic Personal Protective Equipment
One of the most important ways that firefighters can keep themselves safe is by wearing the proper personal protective equipment (PPE). This includes items like a fire-resistant coat and pants, gloves, helmet, and boots. It’s also important to have a self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA) to protect against smoke inhalation. By wearing the right PPE, firefighters can better protect themselves from burns, injuries, and exposure to harmful chemicals and gases.
SCBA (Self Contained Breathing Apparatus)
One of the most important pieces of equipment for a firefighter is their SCBA, or self-contained breathing apparatus. This device allows firefighters to breathe in an oxygen-rich environment, even in smoky or hazardous conditions. In order to keep themselves safe, firefighters need to make sure that their SCBAs are properly fitted and that they know how to use them properly. Additionally, firefighters should regularly check their SCBAs to make sure that they are in good working condition.
Safety Goggles
One of the most important pieces of safety equipment for a firefighter is a good pair of safety goggles. Goggles protect your eyes from flying debris, smoke, and heat. When choosing a pair of goggles, make sure they fit snugly and don’t fog up. You should also have a backup pair in case your primary pair gets lost or damaged. Consider wearing an N95 mask to avoid breathing in harmful particulates from fire, smoke, and ash. Wearing long pants can help prevent scrapes on your legs from crawling through brushy terrain. It’s best to carry at least two sets of extra clothes because firefighters are often drenched with sweat after fighting fires for hours.
Thermal Protection
One of the most important ways that firefighters can keep themselves safe is by wearing thermal protection. This gear helps to insulate them from the intense heat of the flames and can prevent serious injuries. In addition to thermal protection, firefighters also need to be aware of their surroundings and have a plan of escape in case things get too dangerous. By being prepared and staying safe, firefighters can help to ensure that they will be able to continue fighting fires and saving lives.
Gloves
One of the most important pieces of gear for a firefighter is a good pair of gloves. Gloves protect your hands from heat, flames, and debris. They also help you grip tools and equipment. Look for gloves that are flame-resistant and have a good grip. You can find them at hardware stores or firefighting supply stores. Remember to change your gloves often during a long shift. You don’t want to be stuck in an emergency situation with dirty or worn out gloves!
Long Sleeve Shirt and Pants
Yosemite National Park is currently on fire. The massive blaze has been raging for weeks, and firefighters are working tirelessly to contain it. While they are doing an amazing job, it’s important to remember that they are also putting themselves at risk. In order to better protect themselves, firefighters should always wear long sleeve shirts and pants. This will help them avoid getting burned by flying embers or coming into contact with hot ash. Additionally, they should be sure to stay hydrated and take breaks when needed.
Steel Toe Boots
It’s no secret that firefighters face many dangers while on the job. One of the most important pieces of equipment they have to help protect them from these dangers are their steel toe boots. Steel toe boots are boots that have a steel reinforcement in the toe area. This reinforcement helps to protect the wearer’s feet from being crushed by heavy objects. While most people think of construction workers when they think of steel toe boots, firefighters also need this type of protection.
I feel it’s critical for leadership to allocate budget toward mask awareness. Too many people in the US, for political reasons, refuse to wear a mask which is ridiculous. It’s too bad there is actually a large swath of the population that believes it’s an attempt at control and that they do not work. There are many places to get bulk face masks and bulk disinfectant wipes so it should be a no brainer to just wear them until we can ride out this pandemic.
Very interesting, informative, and worthwhile article.
Thank you! Quick, to the point… and very informative.