Firefighters constantly exposed to emergencies in structural or wildland fires need to wear a full set of special protective gear for their safety. These protective gears worn in the field are state-regulated apparel, specifically having flame-resistant features.
Their field emergency uniform includes two layers of clothing: the inner apparel is usually the station wear, and the turnout or "bunker" gear is the first line of defense. Let's find out their differences and why both are needed for protection.
The Turnout Gear
Turnout gear is the outer layer of uniforms firefighters wear in a fire emergency. They are supposed to have high flame-resistant properties with thicker protective layers but lightweight enough to let the wearer move comfortably in a crisis.
And what about the innerwear?
Station Wear: Inner Gear For Firefighters
Station wear is commonly used to describe the uniform worn by firefighters at the station, which is also a work uniform used underneath their turnout gear. The term can also be used, according to this specific context, as additional protective equipment worn by fire emergency personnel.
However, this terminology often becomes confusing for those who are not familiar with protective gear. Firefighters have different types of uniforms in various situations. This is because a certain level of protection is needed depending on the environment they encounter, whether in a structural or wildland setting.
Station wear uniforms include three main parts: shirt, pants, and boots. Officers can wear inner shirts for more comfort. However, all these should also be equipped with flame-resistant properties to serve their purpose in reducing the exposure of the wearer from the hazards in a fire emergency. So, wearing the appropriate station wear appears to be just as crucial as the turnout gear.
Materials Used in Firefighter Uniforms
The most common material used in protective clothing and gear is cotton, nylon, or polyester. Each type of protective clothing offers various benefits to the wearer. Cotton is a comfortable fabric that will absorb moisture. Nylon and polyester are less absorbent but can stand up to extreme temperatures. All of these three are used for making station wear and turnout gears.
The Advantages of a Complete Firefighter Gear
Having complete protection in a dangerous environment bombarded with fire, heat, and multiple debris in different sizes provides confidence to the brave firefighters risking their safety for the good of others. And, of course, it is only that way they can do their jobs and save people's lives without harming themselves in the process.
In other words, one set of protective gear may not be enough. The added covering of an inner layer enhances the protection provided by the uniform.
Equip Firefighters With The Appropriate Gear!
It is a firefighter's job to get into dangerous situations and face the hazards of their work. They carry gear and equipment both for protection and convenience no matter what kind of circumstances they might encounter, which is why a firefighter's uniform should have a good reflection of their needs in the profession: efficient and functional.
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