A Firefighter's Supply List

There is a rather long list of items that a firefighter should have with them at all times when they are on the job. These items cover a range of areas, from protecting the firefighters to helping them accomplish their tasks in an efficient manner.

Helmet

Possibly the single most important part of a firefighter's supply kit, other than their protective suit, is the helmet. Often in a burning building there is debris falling all around and protecting their heads is very important. Most helmets are made of a thermoplastic material that is very resistant to heat. In addition to having a very protective top helmet, most firefighting helmets also feature padded nape and a sort of headband to protect the face. There are also several adjustable straps around the neck and chin that allow for the best fit possible.

Firefighting Gloves

Keeping their hands protected so that they can properly do their job is one of the main concerns for many firefighters. Today gloves are made of materials that are tear and rip resistant, protecting the hands from injury. Gloves come in a variety of styles, the traditonal five finger design, a mitten design, and an interesting three finger glove design.

Firefighting Boots

Boots used by firefighters are very near indestructible. Before the boots can be used they must pass NFPA guidelines, which are very rigid. The best firefighting boots have a steel shank, a puncture proof sole, and steel toes. Both rubber and leather boots are available, but leather boots are much more expensive than the traditional rubber version.

Spanners

A spanner is a bit of an all-in-one tool. Traditionally spanners were used to pry open fire hydrants or to shut of gas leaks. Today spanners are being made to comprise several other uses. Now blades can be attached, which are used as seat belt cutter or for a hose of other things. These tools are generally small and fold in half, allowing the firefighter to place the spanner in his pocket.

The Q-Siren

A Q-Siren comes in handy in a situation where there is a crowd or a lot of people milling around. The siren is much like a loudspeaker. This tool can be sounded in a shrill siren-ish manner to grab the attention of the crowd, but could also be used as a loudspeaker to give directions to the crowd.

Balaclava

It may sound like some Medieval instrument of torture, but actually a balaclava is a part of the firefighter's attire. The sort of long hood provides thermal protection for the face, neck, and ears. The balaclava is worn under the helmet and firefighting suit and must be kept clean for it to do its job properly.

These are only some of the instruments that a firefighter keeps with them while on call. For some more supplies used by firefighters, check out the Firefighting Equipment article also on this website.