Firefighters have different equipment and tools based on their work and needs. Even though there is no limit to the number of tools and equipment a firefighter should have at their disposal, there are nevertheless crucial things every firefighter should invest in to make their work a lot easier. Here are the 5 things you should invest in before becoming a firefighter.
Examination gloves
Before starting your career as a professional firefighter, you should invest in a pair of examination gloves. Preferably, you should have two pairs of examination gloves in different colors. Regardless of your firefighting experience, you will regularly need gloves while doing your work.
Earplugs
The fire-ground is quite loud and prolonged exposure to noise could potentially ruin your hearing over time. As such, you need quality earplugs to keep your ears protected throughout your career. Earplugs are essential for firefighters, particularly when working near heavy power tools or pumps.
Personal protective equipment
Although your firefighting department should be in a position to provide you with personal protective equipment, you should invest in your protective gear before embarking on your firefighting career. The equipment you pick should meet the global firefighting standards. It should include boots, firefighting jacket, pants, facepiece, hood, and helmet. The personal protective gear you select should comprise of as many personal protective equipment as possible. This is imperative for keeping you fully protected while in the line of your duty.
Flashlight
Most firefighters don’t carry a flashlight since the helmet they wear while on duty has an inbuilt flashlight. However, having a flashlight handy is crucial for ensuring you have light all the time even when the helmet’s lighting system fails to work accordingly. While shopping for a flashlight, don’t just purchase any flashlight but rather pick an LED flashlight. LED flashlights are designed for prolonged use and quality lighting.
Trauma shears
Trauma shears are designed to cut through almost everything. While on duty, becoming a firefighters are bound to experience several cutting needs and thus having cutting equipment such as trauma shears in your firefighting gear can ultimately help a great deal.
Conclusion
There are many firefighting equipment that firefighters need to invest in other than these 5 mentioned here. The key, however, is making sure you have the most essential things before embarking on your firefighting career. Don’t forget to get the right training because most firefighting facilities are now absorbing those with formal training in firefighting such as fire science degree and diploma holders. So, if you are not formally trained in firefighting, consider enrolling for a suitable course.
