Dianne Pajo https://www.supplycache.com 2m 507 #firefighter
The views of this article are the perspective of the author and may not be reflective of Confessions of the Professions.
Wildfires are one of the scariest things in the world because they are incredibly destructive, but it also seems as if they’re impossible to control. In reality, wildland firefighters go out there and stop the fires as best they can. The destruction you see is often minimal compared to what it could have been. These wildland firefighters have an important job, but they must avoid some crucial mistakes to ensure they’re safe and the fires get put out.
Be Aware of Hotspots
Taking care of and suppressing wildfires is not a process you will handle in a few hours. It’s a multiple-day-long process, potentially even weeks. In that time, the fire will move a lot, and you’ll need to follow it, putting it out all along the way. During this time, there will be areas you and your crew are spending time in that used to be on fire.
When you’re in these areas, you must look out for hotspots. Everyone needs to take breaks and have lunch or drink water, but be sure not to sit on any of these hotspots. Something inconspicuous can actually be a hotspot that, if you sit on it for too long, will melt through your clothes and burn you. Watch where you’re walking, and watch where you’re sitting.
Having the Wrong Gear
Regardless of your industry, the equipment and gear you use are important. When you’re out in the field combatting dangerous fires and incredibly high temperatures, it’s even more crucial. Wildland firefighters wear a lot of gear and must ensure it’s properly sized. Anything too small or big will get in the way in the field or offer inadequate protection, leading to injuries.
In addition to having the right-size gear, you must also break in your wildland firefighting gear. New boots are almost impossible to walk in at first. Using them when you go out into the field for the first time is a bad idea, considering you’ll do a lot of walking. You need to walk about 100 miles in your boots before you’ve properly broken them in.
Going Cheap
It’s important to have the right gear when out in the field, and another aspect of that is making sure you’re not skimping out on anything. Fire departments normally have some reputable dealers and suppliers they work with, but you still need to buy your own gear. Wildland firefighting gear can be expensive, but it’s that way for a reason. Choosing the cheapest option for everything can endanger you and your team. Get recommendations from other firefighters so you’re sure to get the right equipment and gear to help you get the job done and keep you safe.
To get the job done, wildland firefighters must learn to avoid these mistakes in the field. It’s important to minimize mistakes in whatever industry you’re in, but when you’re working around a fire, you must learn to keep these mistakes at bay.
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