firemen whats in those pockets

[jpm]

what is standard issue for your department?

what extra goodies do you carry to get the job done?

WHO WOULD OF IMAGINED A SILLY QUESTION OF MINE WOULD GET SO MANY RESPONSES.

THANK YOU ALL VERY MUCH

[This message has been edited by jpm (edited October 13, 1999).]

[jsouza]

In our department issue gear, the only pockets we have are the two on the jacket; none on the pants. Newer jackets (the past 8 months or so) are being ordered with radio pockets and a flashlight holder as well as the two pockets. As for gear we get (the kind one would put in a pocket), just firefighting gloves and a few pairs of medical gloves inside a film canister. The common thing that almost everyone carries in addition to their gloves is a pair of door chocks. In my gear, I have the requiste gloves, 3 or 4 door chocks (duh), a ball point pen (you can never find one when you need it), an eyeglass case (I wear glasses), and a disposable camera (haven't lost a piece of evidence yet). On my jacket I have my flashlight in its holder, and scott mask (in its bag) hanging from an additonal toggle. No radio pocket yet, that should be added on within the next month or so.

[F02]

lockblade knife,leatherman tool,door chocks,radio,backup flashlight,short length of rope,gloves and flashlight are on a strap

[Daveg27]

In pockets(bunker pants): small vise-grip type pliers, collapsable spanner, 2 flashlights(1 disposable & 1 mini-mag), Nomex hood(when not on head), S&W folding knife, safety glasses.
On belt outside of coat: Leatherman Supertool, gloves, 4 C-cell maglite.

I have found the pockets on turnout coats to be nearly useless. Most of the time my SCBA belt strap is covering them. The outer belt has been a great investment It allows easy acces to things I need quickly and can hang additional handtools on it. I would recommend a Leatherman type tool to anybody. Lots of times you need a screw driver or a pair of pliers to get an appliance open. Beats going back to the truck for the tool box!

[SBrooks]

Right Now: Fire gloves, Accident (leather) gloves, Safety Glasses, PAT tag (if its in my pocket, no one knows I forgot leave it on the Apparatus http://www.firehouse.com/interactive/boards/frown.gif ), usually a pack of smokes and some matches. A couple bucks in my otherwise useless pants hip pocket, in case we get transferred and I want a coke or dinner.

At various times in the past: Leatherman supertool (lost it), Four way screwdriver (for resetting bells, broke it), Pliers (lost em), Allen wrenches, Adjustable wrenches, 10' x 1" flat webbing loop, pens, penlight, latex gloves, springloaded center punch.

Actually, I've got a door chock in my pocket or on my helmet, not sure and too lazy to go walk out to the locker. The strap might still be in my pocket.

Now if I need any of those tools, I take them from a rookie, who of course, has everything you could think of. Otherwise I use the tools I choose to carry in from the truck or the squad. I figure, there's not too much I couldn't do in an emergency with a bar, that I could do with a leatherman. (it's just a little messier)

BTW, I have the two bellows pockets on the coat, two inside pockets (glasses and PAT tag) and the aforementioned wallet pocket on the pants. (whoever would put their wallet in their turnout pants?)

Newer issued pants have two bellows pockets on the thighs...so every step you take requires them to pick-em up and put-em down. Wouldn't put anything more than gloves in them. Don't usually wear the belt strap, but when I do, the pockets are underneath them...still accessible.

I had gotten out of the habit of wearing my hood when I tillered (you know-it's never really a fire, I'm usually outside, etc) so I sewed it into my collar-always wear it now.

I used to clip my gloves on the outside of my coat, but...the loop on the inside of one broke and they fit too well to get new ones...and when we'd have a 9I, I'd leave my gloves in the squad...and forget to get them off.

You asked, so I told. I don't want to hear about my bad habits, I know them already. In behavioral psychology this is called self-directed conscious incompetence.

[LT trk106]

I agree about the turnout coat pockets, almost useless. But I do carry my gloves and a back up flashlight. In pants pocket only rags, and a rope with a slip loop in it for door control, and folding spanner( also not worth much). Coat has radieo pocket on left sleve,with clip on left chest for mike/speaker and my quick release knife.

LT.

[Tom Lafleur]

The most important item I carry in my turnouts is a St.Florian religous card that my wife gave me.Guess she wants me to come home from work,Go figure!!!

------------------
Tom Lafleur

[jpm]

not many with bail out ropes hummm.

? center punch tool.ever try sears craftsman with the big ball on the end ?
fits nice in the palm only six bucks !

[Gill]

My turn out coat has a radio pocket on my left arm...not too usefull considering I don't carry a radio. The other two pockets are on my bunker pants. In those I carry some goggles for extra eye protection. Some latex gloves, my hood and gloves when I'm not wearing them. As soon as I get some door chocks, I'll put them in there too. Oh yeah, almost forgot...ear protection...the little foam ear plugs, I carry those too.

[Bri]

I carry a backup flashlight, 3 door chocks,safety glasses, a 25' rope for extending a search or heaven forbide to bail out with. A leatherman and a folding spanner. The department issues tublar webbing...mines in my locker (good place for it). Gloves are carried on a strap. During the summer I will carry some hard candy when we are out in the country fighting grass fires. I also have a friction loss wheel in my jacket.

[TASK FORCE 5]

JPM..we never thought about it much unitl we saw this thread,,thats what its for right!!
We took a survey and this is what we came up with,,everyone has 12 feet of webing and a steel carabineer, rubber door lockbacks or door stops most have wire cutters, fire fighter gloves,, from then on its anyones choice,,center punches, spanners, lock back knives, screw dirvers, pics of family (engineers usually have doughnuts or candy bars for those long hours at the hydrant),,
Our coats all have radio pouches as every firefighter has a 16 channel radio, the fire hoods are pulled over your head to around your neck.. anytime you put on your coat the hood goes on!!..these are carried in the coat or out so you can get to it enroute,
All engines and trucks have ems gloves in abundance in door pouches,,and most of us carry some in zip lock bags in pants pockets,,fireground turnouts and station uniform pants.
As for all the other tools.. the firefighters tool pouch contains those items, it has 16 pouches inside and contains such things as spin kits, screw drivers, elec tape, sprinkler shut offs, center punches, exacto knife, alarm box keys,alarm keys, and some other items,,this is carried into the structure when ever nothing is showing upon arrivial, all are the same and contain the same items..
Hope this is helpful,,,stay safe
TASK FORCE 5

------------------
TASK FORCE 5
"THE MIDTOWN
MADDOGS" !!

[TASK FORCE 5]

JPM..Amost forgot.. we take the flashlights for granted but all of ours are recharable stream lights that sit in the chargers on the engines or trucks,, everyone has flashlight pocket and each person takes his assigned light at the beginning of the shift and puts it on his coat or pants along with the radio assigned to him or her..there is an extra one on each rig so they all get rotated..Engineers leave theirs in the chargers till needed,,the extra radio batteries are also in charger on engines and trucks,,along with cell phone batteries,,seems we have a great variety of extra STUFF,, guess it depends on ones comfort..or security level,,,stat safe
TASK FORCE 5

------------------
TASK FORCE 5
"THE MIDTOWN
MADDOGS" !!

[Aff]

I keep it pretty basic: wedges, latex gloves, selfcenter punch, seatbelt knife, spare flashlight, and folding spanner. I was thinking about adding the rope. What is a good length and /or material choice?

[Tillerman]

Well lets see in my pockets? Hmmmmmmm... A 25' 1 inch webbing and 2 carbiners. Thats all, i dont want to have to pull out everything in the station out of my pockets in case I have to bail from a window. Besides I thought carrying tools was the apparatus job. Thank you!!

P.S. sometimes I find an old gum wrapper or two. http://www.firehouse.com/interactive/boards/smile.gif

[PTFD21]

Lets see -
*in my bunker pants-*2 bellows pockets* - Fire Gloves, Medical Gloves (used most often),Safety glassses,Mag-lite flashlight -(usually DOA - when I need it to work), Craftsman self-adjusting locking pliers (my best purchase so far), 20'- 1" webbing and a steel carabiner.
* in my bunker coat -*2 bellows pockets and an inside pocket*
- PBI hood,Window punch,and eyeglass case.(already broke or lost 2 pair without it)


ED C.
<a href="http://members.aol.com/PT10FD/info.htm">Unofficial Pittsfield Twp. F.D.</a>

[This message has been edited by PTFD21 (edited March 24, 1999).]

[Brian]

Let's see, At work I have a PBI hood and a pair of FF gloves, a 25' piece of 3/8 bluewater rope all in my bunker pockets. My coat pockets only have some latex gloves and a glass case on the inside coat pocket. At home (Vol.) I have a PBI hood, a pair of FF gloves, two folding spanners and a keyring with keys to the toolboxes on the squad, the air compressor, the soda machine at station 2, the offices, the desk in the radio room and 4 or 5 keys that I can't remember what they go to. I have a flashlight mounted on my helmet but I am considering removing it after getting it tangled in some clothes lines at a residential job last month. The only thing in my outside coat pockets is latex gloves because there is a good chance if I need latex gloves I probably am not wearing a scba. On the inside coat pocket I carry another glass case and sometimes a granola bar.

[Mike K]

How about a pair of wire cutters? After going through the Rapid Intervention Class taught by Jim Crawford of Pittsburgh Bureau of Fire, he insists on have a pair of wire cutters!! He talked about two fire fighters who were killed when the ceiling from an office building fell on them and they became trapped in the wiring. If they had a pair of wire cutters the may of made it.. The both ran out of air.

[e33]

i carry a handful of goodies in my pockets. Some say im like the new guy...they are the guys who say that there is no need to carry stuff in their pockets and i am crazy for carrying what i do. In my rescue company i have crappy old nomex gear with those patch pockets on the coat and 1 bellows pocket on the pants...poor design if you ask me...so i have to carry the stuff in my coat pockets. i have a 4 in 1 screwdriver, vise grips, utility knife, shears, wibdow punch, 2 door search markers, folding saw, wire cutters and eye and ear protection(people bust my balls for carrying ear plugs...but i value my hearing). i carry my gloves and survivor lite on the front of my coat. in my pants pocket will be a bag of escape line (cmc 60' bailout line and 2 carabiners (now it has a few door chocks and a 25' piece of webbing). i have a Gut belt..but learned a simpler technique at the FDIC that doesnt require a belt be used. occasionally i find old food wrappers as well...but i dont carry any snack food...may have to try that since im a junk food addict. also carry a case for my eyeglasses. i carry my radio in a case with a shoulder strap under my coat. on my helmet is a small flathead screwdriver bent at a 90 degree angle to use like a kerry key, a door chock, and 2 search markers.
In my FD gear i have very little in my coat pockets...they are rather small and covered up by scba straps. think i have a figure 8 decender in one pocket...maybe. In the pants pockets...Left one has 2 door chocks, folding spanner, 4 in 1 screwdriver, wire cutters, knife and 2 door search markers. Gloves are on a glove strap on the front of my coat along with my survivor light. Right one has my 60' CMC escape line with 2 carabiners and a 60" webbing for a quick seat harness or an anchor...maybe. again..i have a gut belt here too but like i said i have a faster way to bail out if need be without hooking to the belt. I also found a neat thing from Yates rope gear...its a pad that slides onto the gut belt...acts as a back support and comfort provider....about $30 from Yates. As time goes on im sure i will drop a few things from my ensemble as i do or dont use them. So thats all i have now....i dnt think its too crazy what i carry....others seem to think so.

[This message has been edited by e33 (edited March 26, 1999).]

[jpm]

i thank all of you for responding to this thread.i can see im not the only batman in the fire service.

in my district 80% of calls are ems, rescue,piaa, or community service.i have a three pocket tool holder in my right jacket pocket.a center punch tool, 7" cutting pliers,6"adjustable wrench,4 in 1 screwdriver,a mini leatherman tool,7"robo grip,electric tape,most important a 6"lock blade knife, oh yea a couple of lock picks also. with a glove on i can pick any tool i need.

left pocket carries a couple of 4x4,gauze,1" tape,antiseptic wipes,pocket mask, all in a plastic bag,

helmet carries door chocks,and gloves up in the webbing.

the rig carries those car battery flashlights. mine sits thier. i use a three cell mag light.with a piece of clothes line taped to it .two times around with the tape thats all .if i get stuck i can easily pull right out.

i also carry a bail out bag .thats posted somwhere else.

yea yea i know i hear you!!!!!!!!!!!

stay low, stay safe

p.s. i prefer jolly ranchers

[FF SAM]

lets see..I carry a 20' piece of 2" webbing, 2 carabiners, a leatherman tool, pen, ems gloves, a spare set of structure gloves in my bunker pants, hazard flagging, that's about it...any more and my pockets aretoo full...Be Safe

[NYTINARMOR]

I used to have the pockets of a wannabe MacGyver, but decided that most of that stuff hurt too much when I fell on it. So the greatly reduced volume of my pockets in clude: folding spanner wrench, 1 steel carabinier, 1 12' loop of webbing, centerpunch, 1 pair of structure gloves, 1 pair of latex gloves, and my nomex hood when I'm not wearing it. My flashlight straps on the front of my jacket and my handheld goes in its pocket. Our department is putting a standard rope escape bag on all SCBA, so I dont have to have any of that in my pockets.

[S. Cook]

Like the rest of us, I've seen FF's that had what seemed like the whole Snap-On catalog and a small buffet in their pockets. They'd jingle so much when they'd walk you swear quarters were falling out of the sky.

We carry a good selection of tools on the apparatus, so for me it's just gloves, webbing, flashlight and sidecutters in the pants. If I'm not toting a radio, I move the flashlight to my radio pocket. EMS gloves on the inside coat pocket. Hood in one of the outside coat pockets.

My old pants had a long flashlight pocket down the thigh of one leg that was pretty handy for the 5/6 cell stream and/or mag lights, but you'd loose anything else you put in there because you couldn't reach the bottom of it.

I used to keep a pair of fencing pliers. They have side cutters, a hammer, a spike, a grip like regular pliers and you could crimp with them too. Pretty handy. I'm going to get another pair to replace the sidecutters, and get a small bag to carry safety glasses, ear plugs, maybe a meal bar or two, and other things in...

Some good stuff here though, I'm going to read a little more thoroughly and see what may work for me.

[This message has been edited by S. Cook (edited March 30, 1999).]

[David Hardinger]

Thanks for the good ideas provided in the pages of this forum. The two most important things I carry in my coat pockets are a folding blade knife and a spare flashlight (actually flashlight #3) My primary flashlight is a 6 volt type on a web shoulder strap and a 2nd light is carried in the band on my helmet. I used to carry straight edged knives in the past but the knife I carry now has a serrated edge which I find cuts much better. I also carry a folding spanner, leatherman tool, goggles and gloves. Rubber gloves are carried in a small pouch on the bunker pants suspenders. Pants pockets contain spare gloves, 12' of 1" webbing and 2 carabiners. I used to carry a fencing pliers, liked having it along but it was too long for the pockets and just didn't get used alot. I also carry a portable radio. Take care out there.

Chief 5601

[bechereg]

flashlight; (minimag on the helmet and a 2 cell "c" in my pocket; door chocks (2), small phillips head and small regual screwdriver, dikes, vice grips attached to a dogs chocker chain, med. gloves, small piece of rope, and a small bungee cord;(works great on keeping push bar doors open).
Everthing I carry I have found a use for in the 22+ years of doing this

[nbfd131]

Let's see.
Radio pocket:nomex hood, small flashlight
coat pockets: pair leather gloves
bunker pockets: extra FF gloves, leatherman
Truckbelt: Steel Cabanier, 3 cell maglight

[nbfd131]

Almost forgot, 2 door chocks on my helmet and safety glasses in my radio pocket.

[hylo]

Hi from Dublin,
My Pockets are always full, 4 ft lenght of coiled line for tying off, leatherman tool, 4 types of lift shaft door release keys, a shears for cutting clothing of casualties, Small maglight, surgical gloves, small hazmat card and door chokes in helmet, balaclava for the cold nights, spring loaded punch and we carry radio and torch as standard.also carry a couple of blood stopper dressings and triangler bandages.
keep safe guys.
Mark.

[IRESQU2]

I always keep my family close to my heart... taped to the inside left of my bunker coat. I know it's not issue...but it is a big pick me up at the bad calls...knowing that i have something to come home to.

other than that...my mask bag has turned into a self escape bag(while on duty i clip my mask to my mounted scba) ..75 ft of 1/2 static line, single use rescue belt, and two locking D's.... Survior light, ht-1000 w/mic, sprinkler chauk, cheap light on my helmet along with three golf tees (great for proping windows,and shoving between the floor and a door)oh, and i also attach a medical card to my tag.

[rbell]

Very interesting posting. In my bunker pants i carry structual gloves, combi window punch seatbelt cutter, pocket face mask and my flash hood when not on head or neck. My med. gloves are in an inside pouch. Like others my coat pockets are empty & usless, while radio pocket is used for radio. Something that i don't have is rope,webbing or carabiners. Can anyone explain to me there uses and which would be better to have. Keep in mind that i am the only one on my dept. with anything in my pockets.

[markww]

Also have in my Bunker coat some Sprinler Wedges, Flashlihght, Compass, And hood and some other needed items, WELL ANOTHER ONE -- In my other pocket, which dodnt have things or inside the Bunker coat I had a sandwivch and can of diet drink Sometimes on a long fire and no relief had a snack or 2 just to keep me going and HEY YOU do get hungry after fighting a fire and thirsty. It may be funny but at least I had somrhting to drink and eat with me Thanks for reading Mark

[kevinr]

I am a fairly new volunteer fireman. I would like to thank everyone that responded in this topic. It gave me some wonderful ideals about what to carry.

Since I am new, I currently carry my structure gloves and a folding spanner wrench. I will find some rope, a knife and a flashlight to carry to start.

Once again, thanks.

[Truckie414]

In addition to the usual assortment of small tools, gloves, and flashlights I have a Matchbox fire engine that my son gave me for my birthday when he was 3. I'm ussually holding on to it enroute to any confirmed job.... Stay safe...

[Co5Fireman]

Well, I carry a folding spanner wrench, a leatherman tool, a combo window punch/seatbelt cutter, fire gloves, a few first aid supplies (latex gloves, gauze, antiseptic, tape, pocket mask, etc. in a baggie). I have a helmet mount light and a 4-cell mag light. A couple door chocks, and a bailout bag. Oh, and the best knife I've had to date, a S&W SWAT Knife. (Half straight, half-serrated edge, rubber grip built into handle, and I can open it with one hand, with gloves on. I love it.)

[st34ff]

In my gear I have my fire gloves, rescue gloves, 25' webbing, folding spanner wrench, small cheap flashlight(which needs new batteries), case for my glasses, glasses for my SCBA mask. I would like to carry more, but I am our of room in my pockets. But luckly for me I am getting new gear in a month or so, so I can carry more stuff.

My dad is also a firefighter, and he has gloves, tools, and a spanner wrench. He is only a driver/pump operator, so he doesn't need stuff for inside the building.

[benson911]

This is a popular thread - In addition to the standard gloves, flashlight, chocks and spanner I carry a 6 in 1 screw/nut driver and a large linesman plier (10"). The pliers and the 6 in 1 are enough tools to remove the access panel on almost any appliance and the pliers are heavy duty enough to use as a makeshift hammer. I never have to go back out to the truck just to open the back of a stove or drier. The 6 in 1 will turn nuts and screws, GREAT TOOL.

[Phred]

Ben...
Hmmm, your 6-in-1 tool sounds interesting. Can you describe it better, or give make & model. I've got a little room left in my coat.

[fyrescue]

Pelican flashlight, jumbo Robo Grips (adjusts with one hand), one of those screw drivers you pull the shank out to reverse to phillips/regular head, has 4 tips, extra gloves, loop of 1" webbing, wedge, snap on plastic search tags. I keep my Leatherman tool on my belt, don't want it to walk!

Mike

[Halligan84]

Whatever you carry make sure it is secured!. We ran our first SCBA survival/firefighter rescue class over the weekend and it was interesting to see what fell out of everyone's pockets or was torn from their gear while doing a rope slide, ladder bail out, entanglement escape, various carries and drags and the denver drill. In alot of cases guys told us they carried way too much junk!..

[Capt. Skippy]

I try to use the KISS principle. I have a mini flashlight attached to my helmet, with a spare nomex hood in the top of my helmet. Ballon pockets on the outside of each leg carry a nomex hood, leather gloves, rescue gloves and overhaul gloves (rubberized). I must mention the rubber gloves are NEVER used for firefighting! I have found they are great in the winter for overhaul when the fire is out and your leather gloves weigh in at about 5 pounds! Have a radio pocket on the left arm because the front mounted ones are useless with an SCBA on. Have two coat pockets on the outside. Carry a ten foot piece of nylon rope for tying a victim's hands together for draging them under myself. Also a spare collapsable spanner wrench (works like a door chock as well)and a set of spare nitrile gloves (EMS type) for use at vehicle accidents. Seems I always forget to grab them off the rescue before I step off! (Damn officers! http://www.firehouse.com/interactive/boards/wink.gif )Last but not least, carry a hand lantern, flat head axe and a hallaigan tool off the engine. Wouldn't leave home without 'em!

[Jim M.]

"My dad is also a firefighter, and he has gloves, tools, and a spanner wrench. He is only a driver/pump operator, so he doesn't need........." I sure hope the pump operator at your next fire knows how to beat that $250,000 engine into supplying water with only a spanner!
------------------------
Jim M.

[st34ff]

Jim M, my dad is a Mechanic full time. He carries screwdrivers, pliers, ect. He never knows when he will have to patch a truck up on location. Just clearing things up.

[Phred]

St34,
Your Dad might not appreciate being referred to as "ONLY" a driver/pump operator. Those folks are pretty handy to have along on a run. Especially since he can also fix it when it breaks! http://www.firehouse.com/interactive/boards/smile.gif http://www.firehouse.com/interactive/boards/smile.gif

[PGTICK98]

in my gear i have four pockets and carry the following:

one pair of gloves in the coat pocket, and one in the pants pocket, i know i hate having wet gloves then needing a pair to perfrom clean up, and the fact that i wear my bunkers alot of times on EMS runs w/out my coat, this allows for easy access to a pair of gloves.

in the pants pocket with the gloves i carry a couple various size door chocks.

in the other pants pocket i carry my EMS holster, and my pocket mask.

in the coat pocket with gloves i carry about a 10 foot piece of rope, and one end of my rope hose tool.

in the other pocket is another door chock, my light, and the other end of my rope hose tool.

i usually come up pretty good, havnt had any problems yet.

------------------
the tick

[Scoco]

Either I have small pockets or I don't know how to pack!!

one pair of gloves in coat pockets

1 pair in pants pockets along with 10" linemans pliers and door chocks

inside coat pocket safety glasses and nomex hood

rope will go on the tool belt (if it ever gets here)

This is an good topic, there are a lot of different ideas about what to carry.

[Ickymow]

Well I use to carry every thing under the sun. When I took EF and started working I was told to carry this and to carry that. Some time I thought it was so the officer would not have to run back to the truck to get tools. He had all the rookies carry it. I had adjustable wrench. neddle nose plires, channel locks, str. screwdriver, plil. screwdriver, wire cutters, folding spanner, flash lite, sprinkler chalks, nails, golf tees, door chalks, folding knife, mecs wire, and some other stuff. That was 20 years ago. I have learned since then that most of that stuff isn't needed or just adds weight to you and slows you down. I now have in my coat a spring loaded center punch, a seat belt cutter, my S&W swat folding knife, and some extra ems gloves. In my bunker pants I have a section of 1" webbing 30 ' long with a caribiner, wire cutters, and leathermen tool. All our air packs have a bail out bag with rope, and we use flash lites off the truck. I use to have one on my helmit but got it tangled up to manny times so I took it off. My glover are on a strab attached to the clip with my air mask pouch. I will also have a radio but not till we get to the scean. I take it off the truck. I also bought 3 of the new mettal door stops that go over the hinge but haven't found a place to put them. We have quite a few places where the doors close and lock behind you so I thought they might come in handy. Thats it.

[Nik]

I'm glad to read all these responses, it reminds me of what *needs* to be in my pockets! Right now I have a 14 foot loop of webbing (for dragging people out and other stuff), a carabiner, gloves, latex gloves, flashlight. My husband carries about the same. My wish list for our pockets: three or four door straps and door chocks, a spanner, needlenose vice grips..

[fireball61]

OK OK.... I must be weak or have very small pockets and can't carry alot. Why in the world do some of you guys carry so much stuff?? I have found that I need only a few items. Like a flashlight, EMS scissors, folding spanner, door chock, electrical tape, pencil, acountability tags, 8ft of nylon rope with a latch on each end and a small pair of vise grips w/wire cutters. That stuff is still heavy but it gets the job done for me. If I need something else, there is always a rookie around.
"Stay low and be safe"

[UPNOVER1]

I carry 2 figure 8 descenders,100ft of 9mm cord,2-4ft loops of 2"nylon tube webbing,2 small snatch blocks(5000lb rating),a whistle, and aids shades.

[eng2lt]

I found this topic very interesting. I was amazed at how many people are not carrying personal escape equipment. I have been ridiculed for what I carry and heve been assurred of sinking if I fall in a body of water. I carry in my coat (Morning Pride with new "Rope Pocket") 40' of 3/8" KM III rope, (3) Aluminum Carabiners (as company officer I carry enough for my crew), (2) hinge hooks, a set of fire alarm keys, seat belt cutter, (2) center punches, I have a strap for my gloves, a pocket for my radio, and a attachment for a survivor flashlight. I also have three pieces of prusik cord for various uses. They work well around door knobs to keep door open. My jacket has two pockets just under the zipper which I keep latex gloves in. I also keep a folding knife in a pocket. On my pants is a Gemtor F.D.N.Y. escape harness. In the pockets is three pieces of webbing 18' each. (1) Regular screwdriver, (1) Phillips screwdriver, (1) Medium Robo Grips, (1) Wire dikes, (1) Small Tin snips, (1) Foldable spanner wrench, and another knife. This is a lot of stuff but the complacency I have found leads me to carry this stuff for self survival and to make my job easier. I always carry a rechargeable flashlight on any run I am in Bunker Gear. I like the Pelican rechargebale lantern myself. I also have a personal 4' fire hooks unlimited roof hook for fires. God luck with assembling your cache!

------------------

[hfdfao]

Did anybody see the story about the guy that was burned(I think it was Cincinatti). It seems the "unspecified" tool he was carrying in his turnout gear wore a hole the outer shell. When he was exposed (my memory is failing) to a burst of flame the burns he sustained where determined to have benn caused by the hole in his gear. Just a thought before you go to Sears.....
Stay safe.

[This message has been edited by hfdfao (edited May 28, 1999).]

[topgunn58a]

THIS IS A GREAT QUESTION
I TOOK A FEW MINUTES TO TAKE A LOOK
IN BUNKER PANTS POCKET I FOUND FF GLOVES,A PEN,DOOR CHOCKS (4)2 IN EACH POCKET, A NOMEX HOOD,SAFETY GLASSES,(OOPS FORGOT TO PUT EM BACK IN AVET RESCUE BOX)FOLDING SPANNER WRENCH (CANT REMEMBER IF I EVER USED IT),2 RUBBER DOOR LOOPS,LATEX GLOVES IN A ZIP LOCK BAGGIE, A FLASHLIGHT ( I BORROED FROM MY FATHER IN-LAW AT LAST MVA, AND A CAN OF CHEWING TOBBACCO. ON MY COAT I HAVE A RADIO POCKET AND MIKE TAB. AND A LOOP TO HOOK MY ACCOUT. TAGS. AND FIRE OFFICER ID TAGS.IWDONT SUGGEST CARRYING ANYTHING ON HELMETS.

[lfs]

Survivor flashlight in radio pocket--we vols. don't have radios issued here. My coat has a zipper and velcro closure. I miss having D-rings.

Coat - Firefighting gloves in bellows pockets, transferred to pants sometimes, but they are too bulky to keep there all the time. Also in coat pockets: mini-mag light, currently with dead batteries, folding spanner. Nothing in the handwarmer pockets. Sometimes latex gloves in inside pocket.

Pants - left: 12 ft. webbing tied into a loop [emergency harness], 100 ft. special 3/8" nylon escape rope [490# working load, from Eastern Mountain Sports], aluminum locking carabiner [works as a descender, smaller and lighter too]. Sometimes the gloves go here also, especially at ground cover fires where the coat stays at the truck.
right: nomex hood [when not on head], 4 1/2" lockblade knife [Gerber "Alligator" with half the blade serrated], leatherman tool, center punch.

Two most useful: spanner, and leatherman [usually for disconnecting batteries or cutting battery cables at MVA's. By the time someone gets the tools off the truck I've finished the job.]

Helmet - nothing extra now. I used to carry a disposable flashlight tucked into a rubber band, but the battery would always die when I nneded it most. The Survivor is much more reliable, brighter too.

I also appreciate the exchange of ideas here. Thanks

- - Larry

[Salvageman]

Looks like everyone has a whole cache of equipment in their pockets. same here. But, I do have one CLIFF BAR for the times that a canteen or meal is unavailable and a coke and a hamburger are not the best sources of rehydration and energy. Also works great when the shift can't get it together for the daytime meal and we get a call that takes us beyond our "normal" lunch hour. That CLIFF bar does wonders until a good meal hits the palate. Stay safe out there.

[KNOBMAN]

RUNNING PANTS: LEATHER GLOVES

RUNNING COAT: SCREW DRIVER AND PLIERS

HELMET: EXTRA NOMEX HOOD (IN CASE I BURN THE FIRST ONE OFF!)

FIREFIGHTING GLOVES ON MY HANDS.


EVERYTHING ELSE IS ON THE PUMP, I DO NOT LIKE TO BE WEIGHED DOWN.




------------------


UNION AND PROUD OF IT!

[boog8591]

Coat Pockets: Not much as pockets are not very usefull. I carry folding spanner wrench, spare sawsall blade, EMT shears, & a door knife. Extracation work gloves hang from front on a velcro strap.

Radio pocket: Not the radio. I use this pocket to carry my safety glasses. Radio is usually hangs from leather strap inside of coat.

Pants pockets (2 on legs): Right side contains fire gloves and nomex hood. Left side contains small length of tool rope and a 20 foot length of webbing.

I also have a door chock and center punch that live on my helmet.

I have found this to be adequate for my needs. I run on a Rescue Company that the majority of out calls are rescue in nature. We do however respond with the local fire company for assistance with the firefighting operations.

[Herb King]

We have a lot of issued equipment for small jobs, safety and rescue. The FFs decide which to carry on person and what to carry in our "green purse", a flight pilots bag. Usually when responding to the type of call you will switch out items to our coat or pants pockets. I carry: a pass device on upper coat mike strap, radio in pocket, in SCBA pocket - pbi hood, spare gloves, DOT guidebook, large set of keys; coat slash pockets, gloves; 2pants bellows- 50' webbing, 2 rubber door/sprinkler wedges, small set of keys, flashlight, med gloves in filmcase. On pants belt, knife, scissors, leatherman. Everything else in purse, knife, carrabener, leather gloves, pliers, rubber splash gloves folding spanner, ems pouch, pocket mask, SCBA mask, screwdrivers, safety glasses, center punch, aural protectors, ear plugs (we work around aircraft) nomex flight gloves,and mini-mag. All gear is issued and others do carry around other items.

[gp13]

In my gear I carry the following items in the described pocket. We will be getting Morning Pride gear soon with the Escape Harness in the trouser.

Helmet: LEATHER FOREVER!!!
Mini Q 4 light
4 Golf tee's
Union Pin A MUST
Tigger pin compliments of my daughter.

Coat: Radio Pocket: Safety glasses ems type
seat belt cutter.

Left Bellows pocket: 16ft. utility rope with clips on each end. 3/16" rope.
pre sewn 1" webbing for searchtether/or for a drag sling.
Inside left pocket: extrication leather gloves- better dexterity.

Right bellows pocket- 3" hose section sewn into a tool pouch with 1- reversible screw driver 4 tips.1 small flat screwdriver for re setting pull stations in apartments. 1 medium ROBOGRIP plier,3 chocks, 6" dike pliers,

Pants: unlike most I find pant pockets useless

Left: Left leather fire glove
Right: Right leather fire glove
on take up strap- Gerber locking knife in sheath.

Radio carried in FDNY style radio case worn over shoulder under gear.

Flashlight- SHOW ME lantern type with nylon seatbelt type strap. ** Attached to light strap is a Gerber "river shorty" knife for self rescue or cutting a downed firefighter free.

Also always carry Pro bar halligan tool and 6' plaster hook from Fire Hooks unlimited.

Hood is wrapped around facepiece to prevent scratching"I wear it faithfully even in Atlanta's humidity".


[This message has been edited by gp13 (edited June 20, 1999).]

[rescuebfd]

Lets see, what do i carry in my turnout gear.

Helmet: leather with borq shields, rachet gone, chin strap removed

Gloves: leather gloves, winter the months i wear mittens. Mittens for fire, gloves for rescue.( like MVA's) I also always carry extra socks and gloves in the piece on cold nights and days.

Jacket: we have Bristol gear. We have two outside pockets and 2 inside pockets. Outside pockets have eye drops. ( i get bad hay fever, looks like i'm drunk all the time eye drops help) right glove in right pocket, left glove in left pocket. In side pockets, i carry a 30 foot personal rope with d- ring on each side.

Pants: we do not have pockets ion our Pants.

Tools i carry are tools i can use if i get in a pinch. I like the pic head axe. I can pull walls and ceilings and i can force doors with this and a good wack!

The scba face mask is already on a unit. We do not get issued hoods.

[This message has been edited by rescuebfd (edited June 23, 1999).]

[SCFF2304]

In my bellows pockets on my pants: right pocket, spare set of turnout gloves, and cpr mask left pocket, 15' of 5/8" rope with a loop tied in one end, spare PBI flashhood, supersaber flashlight

in my coats pockets, also bellows type : right pocket ziplock bag with mucho pairs of latex gloves, one of those interchangeable bit screwdrivers,primary PBI flashhood.
left pocket a pair of lineman's electrical dikes, hawkbill blade knife, roll of electrical tape
in radio pocket on left breast : spare WT battery.

I keep my primary set of turnout gloves and my 16 channel WT in my boots because it helps me remember to use them lol

[Hook and Ladder]

Left pocket: 2 wooden chocks, 2 rubber door laches, 2 ft rope for SCBA Tanks in High Rises.
Right Pocket: Q-4 Mini Light, Leatherman, Crescent Wrench.
Left Bunker: Trauma Shears and Penlight in Holster.
Any more than that and you can't find it anyway.

[friday]

Here's my two cents worth. Inner bunker coat breast pocket- handkercheif or bandana in a ziplock bag to wipe the sweat out of my eyes ater an incident (It isn't uncommon to have 100 degree days here and if its cold, I can blow my nose so snot doesn't run down my bunker coat). Left coat pocket- left glove (must remember to take it out while donning SCBA as belt will keep glove from coming out) and stainless steel lock blade knife with serrated edge, and leatherman tool (every #*&@ed building down here that catches fire seems to have electrical wires or flex duct that sheds its plastic coating at the slightest heat and drops down as an efficient firefighter catching slinky-trap). Right coat pocket- right glove, 6-way screw driver (to the fella that wanted to know what that is, it's just a 4 way screwdriver with different size sockets for the bit to fit in, 1/4" and 5/16") and 25' 1" tubular webbing (For tying victim's hands together for rescue, tying off the top of a ladder and securing a nozzle to it, pulling up tools on a 2 or 3 story rooftop ((really beats climbing up and down the ladder)), tying a swiss seat for bailout, ad nauseum, any big city truckie can probably tell you a million uses for a short length of rope or webbing). Radio pocket- gigantic GE radio that flap won't snap over. Nomex hood in Velcro throat strap so every time I don my bunker coat, it slaps me in the face and reminds me to put it on (I'm a recovering burnt ear heat sensor addict). Used to carry 2 cans of Copenhagen in different pockets so if 1 ruined, I'd always have a dip of snuff somewhere, but found the snuff acts like a sponge for toxic gasses- hey you snuff dippers, try running your 4 gas detector over the can after it's been in a housefire with you, it'll scare the #%$* out of you! Captain Dan

[Bob Snyder]

There are a lot of good ideas here. Here's what I carry:

Standard company issue:

Helmet, PBI coat, PBI pants, leather bunker boots, fire fighting gloves, and pager.

Stuff in the pockets (both primary & backup gear, I keep them as similar as possible):

Spare pair of fire fighting gloves (I use my own New Yorker, and my primary gloves are on the sides of the helmet, held on by the chin strap when they're not on my hands), latex gloves (in a 35mm film canister for protection), PBI hood, Maglite (medium-sized), 4 or 5 rubber door chocks, 15' rescue runner & caribiner, and my 2-way radio.

I used to carry a good-sized pliers and stopped. Now that some of you reminded me, I think I'll put it back in. I really could have used it a number of times in last few months.

By the way, does anyone else find the standard coat pockets to be absolutely useless?? They are either too small, or they are right where the waist strap of the SCBA goes. The only thing I keep there are the hood and latex gloves (everything else is in the pockets on my bunker pants)...My hodd is on before my coat, and I usually don't need to pack up on a medical assist.


------------------
Lt. Bob Snyder
FFC#2, Mohnton, PA

[This message has been edited by Bob Snyder (edited August 27, 1999).]

[e33]

Now that its been a little bit, I;ve reduced my load a little. Rescue company gear carries:
COAT

Right Pocket: Tool pouch with center punch, shove knife, shears. 4-1 screwdriver. Vise grips.

Left Pocket: Utility Knife. Wire Cutters.

Radio Pocket: Safety glasses, ear plugs, eyeglasses case.

Front of coat still carries fire gloves and rescue gloves on glove straps. Survivor light is also still there, comes in handy alot.

PANTS

Right Bellows pocket: 50' CMC escape line, 2 caribiners, 60" webbing loop.

Left Bellows Pocket: Door chocks. Hinge hook. Whatever else i feel like tossing in also.

HELMET: Nothing but a door chock, all the other stuff melted in the last burn we did at the training center...better off not storing too much stuff there.
Some things just arent worth carrying, i removed the things which i never used and felt that wouldnt ever have a critical need for.


[This message has been edited by e33 (edited July 02, 1999).]

[firewalker]

I'll be ignorant, new small town VFD firefighter. Good ideas. Where might one find info on door chocks? What do you use the caribiners and webbing for? Please advise, always open for great suggestions.

I carry flashlight, latex gloves, leatherman, 10 ft rope, springloaded center punch.

[Truckie from Missouri]

I keep few items in my pockets...

On my belt, I attach an M16 ammo pouch containing a 5 way screwdriver, 1 pr. wirecutters (good also for cutting valve stems) 1 pr. pliers, and one genuine-imitation flea-market leatherman-type tool. I also keep a leather tapemeasure holder w/ the bottom strap cut out--EXCELLENT for holding an axe (either style).

My wagoncoat has two radio pockets. (One is actually used as such!) The other I keep a can of Skoal and pack of cig's w/ lighter. I personnally hate the stuff, but victims (uninjured ones) have different habits than I, and sometimes it helps them relax. There's also two handwarmer pockets...in the left one I keep a Leardal mask (comes w/ a plastic case) and in the right one I keep a spare carabiner and a 10 ft webbing tied as a rescue strap. I quote Dwight Clark: "Life on Left, Rescue on Right."

My nightpants have bellows pockets. I keep a folding spanner in one of them (switches with each use...depends on which hand used it last) and various size wooden sprinkler & door wedges in both of them.

I clip the Streamlight Box onto my belt, grab either the irons or a 6 ft hok and pumpbucket or pick axe (depends if investigating/small fire or working fire), and away I go! (Unless we're first in, the we have to do the Engine stuff)

------------------
Be safe.

Ken

[This message has been edited by Truckie from Missouri (edited July 24, 1999).]

[Aussie Fire]

I carry latex gloves inside of my helmet,leather gloves in my turn out jacket,multi purpose tool (screwdrivers,pliers and so on)mag lite torch,rope,springloaded centre punch,a small kit with band aids,sunscreen,refresher cloth,and so on which fits into a small plastic bag and most important of all weather proof MATCHES,as we do go to some large bush fires and if you get stuck they are good to light a back burn

[Aussie Fire]

I carry latex gloves inside of my helmet,leather gloves in my turn out jacket,multi purpose tool (screwdrivers,pliers and so on)mag lite torch,rope,springloaded centre punch,a small kit with band aids,sunscreen,refresher cloth,and so on which fits into a small plastic bag and most important of all weather proof MATCHES,as we do go to some large bush fires and if you get stuck they are good to light a back burn

[sarge552]

Standard issue on equipment for us is coat,bunkers,gloves,hood and helmet. The extras I carry include my nomex hood in my inside coat pocket. I carry my firegloves in my left side pantpocket along with medical shears and a seatbelt cutter ( works great to remove clothes on trauma patients-take my word for it!!). In my right side pant pocket I carry leather work gloves, extrication gloves, folding spanners, hinge chocks for doors, window punch, and a dedicated pocket for 25'of rope and attached carabiners. I also have a small tool bag which I take on extrications-it includes standard and phillips screwdrivers, pliers and channel locks, small hand saw, sockets and multiple wrenches and flashlight. extra carabiners too!

[Rick Decorie]

These are the things I carry in my bunker pants pockets: Leatherman tool (most used item), wood chokes (homemade), folding spanner (the dept. issue one is in my locker), window puch, Hinge Hook, flashlight, and webbing. Attached to my coat is a serrated edge knife. I also have a bag I keep in the engine that has my bailout kit, spare hood, t-shirt, bottle with drink mix, and other assorted goodies that I may need at certain calls.
Stay safe and always carry a tool!
LtD

[OCFireEXP]

hey all, whats up?!
this is a pretty cool post, so i went out to my locker, and this is the stuff that i, the greatest truck fireman in the free world (just kidding!) carry in my gear:

helmet: yellow california lightweight style, 4" faceshield or my buton goggles

coat: yellow carins mid waist coat
left pocket: emt holster, latex gloves, baggie of first aid stuff (minor), and my 2 new toys: seatbelt cutter and spring loaded center punch.
right pocket: 2 door chocks, wire cutters, caribiner, and my pbi flash hood on top.
radio pocket (right hip): bottle of gatoraide, or a radio if the need arises, and a cheap pen.
radio pocket (chest): orange pelican flashlight- really cool, it says the department name on it http://www.firehouse.com/interactive/boards/smile.gif


quick hitches: yellow cairns pants with big ranger shoe-fit boots (sz 14, and their tight!)

right leg pocket: disposable flashlight, latex gloves

left leg pocket: 15' rope, w. loop on both ends, for search&rescue or tying a victems hands to drag them out w. one arm.

i dont carry a bail out rope, but i see the purpose for having one. mabyee some day i will. i might also get a truckmans belt, and a biel tool.
anyone have comments on those items, good or bad, email me!

everyone be safe,
Joe

-were not heroes, were professionals.

------------------

[EPFD-AL]

In one of my pockets, down under the gloves, screwdriver, cutting pliers, and etc is an old brass policeman's whistle that an old timer gave me in the late 60s.

He, and firemen of his time, back when portable radios and PASS devices were yet to come, used their whistles with a series of clever codes to signal one another.

His whistle has special memories for me and it's brought me luck.

One time my portable radio went dead during extended roof operations and I needed to call down for a new saw blade. I couldn't get anyone's attention, and didn't want to climb back down, so I dug out the whistle.

I certainly got attention.

[semperfires]

I carry the same assortment of "tools" as most have described in previous replies. The only thing I would like to add is a Pocket Mask for CPR. Most engine responses are EMS related. No one wants to be in a position where the medic is a few miles away and someone forgot to restock the medical bag on an arrest.

[frman]

Pretty much the same as most. Pants pockets: crescent wrench. 20'9mm static kernamntle rope with one carabineer for self rescue, to hold doors open and for hauling hose attic ladders and the like over fire escapes. A three to two grounded electrical plug and of course fire candies for when your mouth tastes, well you know...
In my jacket pocket I carry an eyeglass case that I use to carry "junior firefighter stickers" they come in handy when on med calls and burning permits, shopping for lunch etc... I also carry a CO data card with action levels so when we go on CO activation calls we can educated the homeowners or occupants. Spare med gloves and a small spanner as well as a clip mounted handlight and my scba facepiece in a bag. One thing I started wearing is a self adhesive temperature monitoring label on the front of my helmet, it lets me know the temperatures I'm exposed to in a working fire.

------------------
check out www.theeducatedfirefighter.com (http://www.theeducatedfirefighter.com )

[DED1645]

My inventory consist of: resque rope(3/8",10' long), collapsible spanner, center punch, ear plugs, light(clipped to my coat), dog tags(just in case), my helmet also has a light mounted on it, S&W knife, 2 wegdes, light leather glove(for resques), 2 pair of rubber gloves(1 reg. pair and 1 hi-contam. pair), our coats have radio pouches and mask pouches. We are issued personal scba masks.

------------------
David DeCant
firefighter/NREMT-B
Lindenwold,NJ

[Rob]

Let's see...two folding spanners, two Res-Q-Wrenches, flashlight, rope, work gloves, firefighting gloves, radio, notepad, pens, camera, hood (when not on head), lighter (for lighting tiger-torch), extra film...and wildland goggles too!

------------------

[HvyFire13]

Let's see.....
Bunker Coat Left Pocket: left extrication glove, air chuck (for deflating tires), spring center punch (the kind you pull back and release, learned my lesson about spring loaded center punches years ago, hand goes in window, glass cuts glove and hand) By the way I'm a lefty so tools go in that pocket!
Bunker Coat Right Pocket: right extrication glove. I use Mechanix gloves for Extrication
Inside coat pocket: Smokes and snot rag
Clipped on outside of jacket: Flashlight
Pinned inside coat: Angel on my Shoulder Pin
Pants left pocket: left firefighting glove, EMS shears, disposible camera, spare flashlight, spare left extrication glove.
Pants right pocket: right firefighting glove, spare right extrication glove, zip lock bag with film case of asprin (for when the Chief is having a bad day!) everyone may laugh but...a few feet of toilet paper! You never know when nature may call, the guys at the station laughed the first time they found out, but I was the last one laughing when nature called for them!
Take up straps on pants: left...leatherman tool. Right....another spare flashlight in holder (mini-maglight)
Suspenders: latex glove pouch w/latex gloves...sometimes!!!!
On Helmet (LEATHER FOREVER!!!) Garrity light on right side, folding serated knife on left.

Last but not least......Lucky quarter wired to suspender clip, don't know where it came from, found in behind my frontace on my helmet after a house fire, couldn't figure out how it got there so I thought it must mean something!!!!!

Be Safe All!!
God Bless

[Butchpfd]

Well here goes! Coat Chest radio pocket;Radio, folding knife on lanyard for last resort cutting myself clear. Inside coat pocket ear plugs, glasses case, spare hood(was burned before hoods never again!), if one is wet have a dry one, a roll of kerlex dressing( used this on victims more than I ever thought I wood.)Coat cargo pockets; gloves, pen,spare EMS gloves, flashlight. Coat "D" ring; Accountability tag, SCBA Mask bag.Pants cargo pockets; Spare gloves, folding spanner wrench (folded makes a good door stop)6 foot of 1 inch webbing, 25 foot of rescue rope with carabiners, pouch with leatherman, mini-mag light,seatbelt cutter,EMS scissors.
Have carried more over the years, now that's my rookies job, carrying tools. He's a good kid.

------------------
Stay Safe Butch

[Romania]

Okay, you asked for it. My turnouts weigh slightly more than my fellow firefighters, but the weight difference is negligible and the benefit is great.

I carry ALL of the following in my turnouts:

(1) pelican flashlight as a backup.
(1) pair arch-joint pliers
(1) pair heavy duty cutting pliers
(1) philps screwdriver
(1) flat-head screwdriver
(1) 15' 1" webbing strap with a carabiner
(1) 60', 5mm drop line
(1) folding knife
(1) leatherman (on the takeup straps)
(3-4) door wedges
(1) spanner wrench
(1) goggles

I clip my radio to my SCBA chest strap so that I can hear it and use it. I don't like the radio pockets because they are covered by the SCBA.

I also carry my EMS stuff in a fanny pack that I wear on ALL EMS calls. THis includes

Stethoscope
Penlite
(2-3) pens
Prescription Drug guide
Trauma Shears
(2) n95 masks
(2) sets of sleeves (tyvex for PPE)
Safety glasses
Small flashlight
Sharps bullet
Some Vionex wipes
cough drops
a couple bucks
EMS certifications.


------------------
Alan Romania, CEP
romania@uswest.net
IAFF Local 3449

My Opinions do not reflect the opnions of the IAFF or Local 3449.

[Romania]

Our department speced the older, longer coats (not the short, tails style). Our pockets are accesible.

------------------
Alan Romania, CEP
romania@uswest.net
IAFF Local 3449

My Opinions do not reflect the opnions of the IAFF or Local 3449.

[Animal]

My pockets are pretty light:

Coat: Structural gloves, Nomex hood
Pants: 2 pair EMS gloves, Safety glasses, EMS shears, seatbelt cutter, extrication gloves, center punch, and a folding knife.

[fireemt03]

Well after reading ALL the great posts on here i pulled out my gear and looked into my pockets. I got a lot of good ideas from you all thanks.
I used to carry about 8 wedges in my left pocket ( pants no coat pockets)and a few rubber "band" type door markers.
in the right a folding spaner and a 5 in one "rescue tool" you know the folding spaner and window punch ( there is an add for it on this site). nomex hood inside coat pocket ( in the liner) and gloves in boots. 16 ft webbing with 2 caribeners on it in the radio pocket i have a VERTEX radio ( a little bitty thing) so i have room for both.and sometimes a few pair of latex gloves when i remember to put in a new pair.

but now after some thinking i went out and got a 8'' linesman pliers/wire cutters and a 4in 1 screwdriver. i have needed both in the past month a FEW times.
so now I have 4 wedges and the rubber markers in my left leg in my right i now have the folding spanner and the 5 in 1 spanner tool along with the linesman pliers and the 4in1 screwdriverand a back up flashlight.and a roll of 2in medical tape. ( i think thats it )
nomex hood still in the same place
in radio pocket i still have the webbing
i also put a pocket mask with 2 pair of gloves and a few pens and an army trauma pad ( about 1in by 3in ) on my suspenders i think that will change though. ( how do you get a GOOd pair of gloves in a film case mine i think are too thick).
and on my helmet ( this week) i have a flashlight held on by one of those rubber bands.
THANKS for all the great ideas.

and remember a firefighter WITHOUT a tool in his hand is just a spectator.




------------------
Corey J. Molinelli NREMT
Asst. Fire Chief

[Hammerhead338]

I carry all the usual tools and lights that everone else carries. The only thing that I carry that no one else has said is eye drops. I wear contacts and some times you can get stuff in your eyes and the drops help to wash the stuff out and help to keep the contacts wet.

Joe Decker
Local 3905

[axstrike]

Leatherman,gloves,nomex hood,flashlight,2 wedges,6'of rescue rope.

[axstrike]

Leatherman,gloves,nomex hood,flashlight,2 wedges,6'of rescue rope.

[Ken Hanks]

Coat pockets:

2 Electrical testers-1 detector for live wires (house wiring), another that plugs into the wall, roll of electrical tape, ear plugs, extra rubber gloves, wire ties, safety glasses, wooden wedge or 2, notebook and pen.

Pants pockets- 25' 1" tubular webbing with a 'beener and rope rescue gloves.

I also carry a forcible entry kit on a strap-
18" Lock puller/pry bar, mini haligan bar, hose strap, small flashlight, and a tool kit that contains lock picks, shove knife, key tool, vise grips, reversable screwdriver, and shears.

------------------
Ken Hanks
Captain
Naugatuck FD
IAFF L1219

Instructor
Connecticut Fire Academy

[McCall]

You guys gave me some excellent ideas. I am building my supplies from the various suggestions, you guys have provided.

I have just two questions. In the last list was "lock picks"! Yikes... Be careful because in many areas, possession of lock picks by anyone, other than a licensed locksmith could end you in trouble with the police - they consider it possession of burglery tools.

Other than that, some great ideas... the door chocks (chucks) everyone is talking about, where do you guys get them. I have looked everywhere, and have had no luck.

Terry McCall
Marbletown VFD
SAVAC of Oswego

Disclaimer: The views expressed are my own, and in now way reflect upon the policy/opinions/s.o.p. of any of my respective departments.

Have a safe day....

[Ken Hanks]

I thought about that when I purchased them. I always leave them at the fire station.

I have used them to open alarm boxes when a key is not available and doors to basements in apartment buildings while waiting for a key (non fire calls of course!)

I always get my door chocks at local schools during alarms. Never any shortage of blocked open fire doors.

[Pamela Baber]

Could not resist the opportunity to share with you this poem a friend gave us when our boys were small. It immediately came to mind as I read through the many pages of this thread.

His overalls hung on the hook by his hat, and I noticed his pockets were bulging out fat. So I emptied them out in a pile on the chair, and I tenderly touched every treasure with care. There were three rubber bands and a parking lot ticket, two paper clips and a fishing cricket, a camphor ball and an empty match box, a half dozen nails and a couple of rocks, a yellow golf tee, two lollipop sticks, a marble,a spool and three tooth picks, a knife and a pencil, some parachute silk, a wire and a cap from a bottle of milk, a rusty door key and a white chicken feather,an old clock gear and a piece of leather, a flashlight bulb and three or four strings, a broken dog biscuit and two hair springs. Then I gathered them up, all his treasures so grand, every rock, every nail and each rubber band, and I put them all back, then I kissed him goodnight, and he smiled in his sleep as I turned out the light. And I thrilled as I thought of the fun and the joy such trivial things could give to a boy. (Claire Richcreek Thomas)

Even though the treasures have taken on a more practical purpose, it's nice to know that some things stay the same.

Stay safe and don't forget to call your mom.

[benson911]

McCall - At any construction site that still uses wood you will find scrap pieces cut from 2x lumber and some will be just the right size for a door chock. Even the short ones have uses.

Or you could cut a piece of wood yourself - one 2x4" stud yields a lot of chocks.

[Capt Lee]

All greeat ideas. I carry some of what is mentioned, gloves, latex gloves, screwdriver, leathermen, etc. One thing I didn't see that I have is a piece of chalk. Not schoolboard size but the kid size sidewalk chalk. Works great for searches to mark trails and doors, etc. Plus its big enough to hold woth a gloved hand and you can pick a color. Only draw back is that my daughter wanted to know why I wanted it to draw on doors and stuff when she isn't supposed to! Go Figure.......

[Wayno]

Here is what I carry some may think it is extensive but I run on an all volunteer company and you never know who is going to be with you:

Bunker Pants: Left pocket is my leatherman, colapsable spanner, 2 rubber door straps, 2 medium wedges. Right pocket is my self rescue bag and descender, a medium to large set of side cutting dikes and a folding utility knife.
Bunker coat: right pocket; Leather rescue gloves right pocket extra interior gloves. right shoulder radio pocket: radio and a small back up flash light.
On my helmet are 2 more wedges and 2 more door straps.

Some say excessive but I have a wife and two little ones to go home to and avery little bit helps.

------------------
No Dragon To Big To Tame!!

[Break-N-Entry]

I keep a 'HingeHook' that I was given for my birthday in one of my pockets. It's a handy tool to keep doors open.

[Hammerhead338]

Hi McCall, my wife worked at a furniture store that went out of business, and on the last day I took several door chocks.

Have a good day and be safe.


Joe
Local 3905

[jabbott]

I carry my radio,a Leatherman,some door markers (made out of old tire tubes),extra gloves (leather),small flashlight,camera
(never know when you might need to take some evidence shots)safety glasses and a small rope. You never know what might happen,so be prepared with some light weight tools to get your butt out alive.

[FireEMT38]

Have 4 pockets on coat. Radio pocket, Large pocket holds air pack face mask and Reed Hood. 2 smaller pockets hold 25 foot section of webbing. Leather gloves for any use other than firefighting. A few pair of Latex gloves. Disposable camera. Pants pockets have firefighting gloves. Take up strap on pants have a gerber tool. Suspenders have EMS shears and center punch. Be safe

David Hartley
EMT-Intermediate
Stafford Fire/Rescue
Stafford, Texas

[Scene25]

Ok, wirecutters for when the false ceiling comes down, and brings the wires with it, 2 leather gloves, 1 structural gloves, 2 hoods, safety glasses, door chocks, leather straps, 25' webbing, radio, 2 flashlights. That about sums it up. This does not include my Halligan/Axe combo, which I take from the Engine every fire call. And also, my lil good luck charms...4 leaf clover, taped inside my leather new yorker, which was given to me by my 3 y/o son<------- mom picked it for him : ), and the minature Taz on the leather which was given to me by a co-firefighter that I worked with in the past. Fun times, dangerous times, and times when you gotta stay together through the worst<----Blew out knee on second floor of Working Duplex Fire, and he got out with no other harm...Ill leave it at that. Thanks and Safe.

------------------
John Williams
NRFF1/EMT
Clairton Fire Dept (swPA)

[STA2]

Coat Pockets: 1 pair extrication gloves, 25' nylon tubed webbing, 1 steel "D" ring, 1 mini-bar (7" version of halligan), 1 SL-90 light on outside clip, 1 MTS-2000 radio in radio pocket.
Pants Pockets: 25' nylon tubed webbing, 1 pair back-up gloves.

Be safe.

Larry

[FiRsqDvr45]

Golf tees,survivor flashlight, 25' webbing with a loop sewed in the end, pump operators cheater card,portable radio, trauma shears, and a spare pair of gloves in my hip pockets for those lovely New Hampshire winter night fires. On the Gut Belt a 50' drop line with a 'biner, and 8 to bail my precious self out,a SOG tool( Leatherman/pliers contraption) and a mask bag to keep the crap out of my mask...

[rescue15]

I carry a 50' 9mm bail out rope, 2 carabiners and a fig 8 attatched to a 20' tubular webbing. This has been useful for self rescue and extending searches. This is set up in a small rope bag and clipped to the waist strap of my BA. I don't bring it in on all calls, just the ones that sound like they may turn into something or if I go into an industrial or commercial building. I also carry a radio, rescue gloves, explosive proof flashlight, latex gloves,spanner,channel locks, and sprinkler chocks.These tools are stowed in various pockets or clipped to my turnout coat. Finally, a 4 way screw driver. I carry one with a large handle and shank. The socket the screwdriver bits go into are a perfect size to use as a nut driver on roof top HVAC systems when you have a fire in them and need to gain access to the inside of the unit. This sounds like alot to carry but in 4 large pockets it doesn't seem to be too heavy or cumbersome. I also carry irons or hook when appropriate. And of course, firefighting gloves and PBI hood are worn as part of my PPE.

[McCall]

Let's see, first, thanks everyone for the replies. Right now, I carry a Leatherman, Mini Maglite, serrated knife, window punch, seatbelt cutter, scissors, forceps, bandanna, CPR shield on keychain, and gloves (rubber, insulated extrication, and ff ones). That's the basics that I usually need. Usually get spanners, etc. off truck. Plan on adding a folding spanner, and that Res-Q-Wrench (ad on this web page), door chocks, and some other small misc. stuff. Lights, and stuff I just get off the truck, unless I've driven my POV - then I usually dig into my gear bag for lights, first aid stuff, etc.

I am also making a list of other stuff to get, as time goes by.

Terry McCall
Marbletown VFD
SAVAC Of Oswego

Disclaimer: The views expressed are my own and do not reflect upon the departments that I am a member of.

[CFD119]

Well lets see we will start from the top down.
We use goggles on our helmets, so that takes care of the safety glasses.
On my coat I have 2 radio pockets (everyone on duty has a radio and I also have my personal radio) one on the sleeve and one on the chest. I also have my Survivor light on my other sleeve. My FF gloves are in a glove strap. My hood is in a inside pocket with a couple quick reference cards.
As most people have said the pockets on the coat are hard to use with a scba on, so the only stuff that I have in those pockets is stuff that I use when I am not using a scba.
In the coat pockets I have trauma sizzors, ear plugs, a couple litesticks, and ems gloves. On the back of my coat we have developed a special pocket. It is at the very bottom of the coat, so when I have a scba on the pack sits just above the pocket. In this pocket I have 50 feet of NFPA escape rope. The rope is rigged with a mini descent device and carabiner so that all I need to do is pull it out and attach it to a repel belt that is in my bunker pants. It works really well.
On my pants I have the repel belt in what is basically one long belt loop that goes all the way around my waist, so it is always in place. I have a bellows pockets on each leg both pockets have a divider in them. On my left leg I keep the front part empty so if I am running the pump I can stick a radio in it, if I dont have my coat on. In the back part I have one of those paramedic belt pouches (You know, the one's that everyone gives you when you graduate medic school "for your sizzors", I finally found a use for it) with tools in it. I have a 6 in 1 screwdriver, a knife, a window punch, shove knife, channel locks, an electical tester and linesman cutters. There is also a folding spanner in that pocket. In my right pocket I have 2 howd(webbing) straps, some wedges and door straps, and some work gloves.
I know that it sound like alot but I have one time or another needed everything that I carry.

Thanks, and be safe

[This message has been edited by CFD119 (edited December 02, 1999).]

[FIRE549]

What's in those pockets?
- 40' of 5mm rope w/2 caribiners
- 2 wedges
- 8' of 1/2' rope
- extrication safety gloves
- multi-tool
- Mini-screw driver w/ flat and phillips heads
- flashlight
- I also carry my hood and ff gloves in a
pocket which are donned if needed.

I enjoyed all the responses.

[D. Anderson]

Lots of good replys and some good ideas I've never heard of or seen before.

One idea to share that I read in one of the national magazines from an FDNY firefighter is to organize things in your jacket and pants pockets with the "right to fight, left for life" phrase.

AS for my pockets, stuff that I'm likely to need right now are in my pants pockets(40 foot bailout/search rope, rubber door openers, and a seatbelt cutter with a built in window pin)where I can get at it quickly. Jacket pockets contain stuff that isn't needed very often or in a hurry(more wooden chocks, set of allen wrenches for pull boxes, latex gloves, leatherman, folding spanner, extra hood, and wool headband to cover ears in Minnesota winter.

[DPJ1]

Let's see....in my pockets...knee pockets we have fire gloves,25 feet of 1" webbing,nomex hood, and small flaslight.Coat pockets have two folding spanners,4 way screw driver,Buck rope knife,trauma shears, 2 tootsie pops(cherry)laughin,latex gloves,flashlight. Radio pocket on coat(nice)if you have a radio(not)I'm sure someone will hear you shouting Mayday thru your mask(not#2).Chocks on helmet. See ya TAKE CARE!!! D.J.

[HarrisonJR]

I have two front pockets on coat which are useless when I have an air pack on because of the belt therefore I carry my fire gloves and hood in those have radio pocket on left arm which is too big for radio so I carry a flashlight in there. Inside pocket of coat I carry some latex gloves for mva's. Have a helmet mounted flashlight on my lid. Also on back of helmet is clipped my accountablity tag. Two front pockets on bunkers left side has 20' of rope right side has folding spanner wrench, seat belt cutters, window punch.

[HarrisonJR]

I have two front pockets on coat which are useless when I have an air pack on because of the belt therefore I carry my fire gloves and hood in those have radio pocket on left arm which is too big for radio so I carry a flashlight in there. Inside pocket of coat I carry some latex gloves for mva's. Have a helmet mounted flashlight on my lid. Also on back of helmet is clipped my accountablity tag. Two front pockets on bunkers left side has 20' of rope right side has folding spanner wrench, seat belt cutters, window punch.

[ENFD240]

Our turn out gear has two pockets on the jacket and two on the thighs of the pants. Left coat pocket: Flashlight with a quick release lanyard connected to front snaps on coat. Right coat pocket: nothing. Left pants pocket: leather tool holder with a philipps and regular screwdriver, mini vise grips, needle nose pliers, lineman's pliers, snips, adjustable wrench, window punch and a toothbrush (I'm not quite sure how it got there or even whoose it is). Right pants pocket: 25 feet of 1" webbing and nothing else.

So here's the rational for all that I carry - The coat pockets are bassically useless. The flashlight works well there, though, because it has a clip. So i clip it on the edge of the pocket and then I can let it dangle from the lanyard if I need both hands. The "tool box" that I carry in the left pants pocket is quite compact and is not realy all that heavy. And more times than I can count, they have come in handy. The webbing in my right pants pocket is the only thing that goes in there. I don't want it getting hung up on anything if I need it. Besides the pockets, I have a pair of goggles on the front of my helmet. The hood always goes on as well as my Home-Depot back support, so they hang over my jacket at the station. Ok I guess that's it.

------------------

[galiazj]

LEFT CHEST, RADIO POCKET: Well...Radio

RIGHT CHEST, MIC STRAP AND CLIP:Streamlight, Acct. Tag

LEFT WAIST, COAT POCKET: bail out rope, folding spanner, yellow construction crayon (for putting a X on doors of rooms already searched, hmmmm good idea? who knows)

RIGHT WAIST, COAT POCKET: uvex safety glasses, nomex hood, lether rescue gloves

LEFT KNEE, PANT POCKET: left fire glove

RIGHT KNEE, PANT POCKET: right fire glove

LEFT NECK, VELCRO: velcroed to it is my name

LEFT CHEST, INSIDE POCKET: box of marlboro reds, zippo lighter, and a pen

MY HAND, MESH MASK BAG: personal MSA face piece. on the clip of the bag... Acct. tag (why you ask? b/c the bag stays on the truck in the jump seat, when I am not chauffer, ...hmmmm)

HEAD: black CAIRNS & BROS. new yorker w/ bork shields, clipped to bar on rear of frontace piece...a pen size 2-in-1 (phillips and slotted) screwdriver

What else do ya need?

[halligansq]

I carry the following:

Streamlight Survior light worn on the outside of bunking coat. Dacor scuba light worn bandolier style.

Carried in Pockets:

Following tools carried in "Firefighter Candidate" tool roll:
1- "4" way screw driver
1- Iowa American "forcible Entry Mate"
1- shove knife
1- key tool
1- window punch
1- GAL elevator drop key

Carried in left pocket
2- wooden door chocks
2- hinge hook
1- Vise grips with eye bolt welded on end (for connecting a rope/webbing with carabiner to hold
1- channel locks with modified ends (for manipulating locks)
1-Brown and Fulkerson nylon strap (hose strap,and other usefull purposes)
1-Spyderco rescue knife

------------------

[Blue Boy]

The only things we are issued are a flashlight, pass device, gloves, and a hood. But I choose to carry much more than that in my gear. I have 2 large pockets on my coat and 2 large on my pants.

I carry a hyndrant wrench, window punch/knife/screwdriver, extrication gloves, rubber gloves, medical tape, sprinkler stopper, my scba glasses. I think thats it.

[steelega]

On our Technical Rescue team, some of us have started using a condura carpenters pouch in the right turnout pants pocket. They're available at most any building supply store. We have been using the pouch with the belt loop on it and cutting the belt loop off with a hot knife. The pouch fits exactly into our turnout pants pocket tight enough so it won't come out when you pull tools out. The beauty of the idea (which I must confess is not mine) is that a pocket full of tools doesn't cause a hole and the tools start falling out the bottom of your turnout pocket, it's compartmentized and the tools are organized and standing upright and in the same place every time which makes them real easy to use. Most of us carry vise grips, automatic center punch, Channel locks, battery cable cutters, knife, and a pair of linesmans pliers in the right pocket. It's a little heavy, but the pouch makes it real manageable.

[Squad33]

Interesting topic, made me think about a few things. I work in a semi rural area, 99% single story homes, so alot of things just aren't needed so why wiegh myself down? heres what I carry.
COAT
inside pocket: medical gloves, bandanna,plan on adding UVEX shades when I get some bettere EMS shades.
right pocket: centerpunch.

PANTS
right pocket: right glove, hood, trauma shears.
left pocket: left glove, a length of 1" webbing tied in a funky kinda loop.(I have it tied in a large with a water knot then I have a small loop that had been presewn.)and a small dive light on a lanyard.

I also have a leatherman tool on the takeup straps but that will be changing. I have found that the tool is unreachable unless you undo some coat snaps. not a viable option in a ripping fire.

Stay safe.
May the Lord bless our Fallen Brothers and their famlies.

[parkerfp1]

center punch, extrication gloves, rubber gloves in a film container, safety goggles, webbing, door jams, flashlight, fire gloves, rope, HAZ-MAT chemical gloves, NOMEX hood, radio in radio pocket or can of soda in radio pocket (depending on circumstances)

[fireman14us]

In my brush fire gear I carry a pair of Fireman VI gloves(OSHA compliant, not NFPA), a nomex hood for extreme smoke conditions, and I ALWAYS carry drinking water(either in a canteen on a military belt, or a bottle in a pocket).

What I carry in my structural gear varies from time to time, and so does the pocket that I carry the items in. But I always carry 1 pair of NFPA gloves, a nomex hood, a flashlight, and a folding spanner wrench(VERY useful!). I also carry a radio, CPR mask and latex gloves, sometimes a spare pair of gloves and a spare hood in the pants pockets.

[Lieutenant Gonzo]

This an interesting subject, and there are a lot of good ideas. My own 2 cents worth..
Turnout coat:
inside pocket- nomex hood
outside pockets - spare fire gloves in a resealable bag to keep them dry, extra medical gloves, lightman strobe that I clip to my coat when working at a fire or at night.

I have my Survivor light on a clip and a radio pocket for my portable. I keep my firegloves on a velcro strap with clip for easy access.

Turnout pants: Leatherman tool, ems holster w/scissors, window punch, pocket knife extra pen and paper in a small reseal bag to keep them dry, door chocks and a piece of chalk to mark doors with. I also carry a small bag with me that has safety glasses, my Scott 4.5 facepiece, EMS and fire service field guides, DOT guidebook, and personal binoculars. A new addition (as of 12/26/99) is a small "derringer" screwdriver with 2 phillips and 2 slotted interchangeable heads
(perfect for pull station resetting). I have to figure out what pocket to put it into!

[This message has been edited by Lieutenant Gonzo (edited December 26, 1999).]

[FIRE549]

In addition to my previous post I have read about carrying some golf tees. They can be used to help plug minor leaks.

[FIRE549]

In addition to my previous post I have read about carrying some golf tees. They can be used to help plug minor leaks.

[Rod Carringer]

Why of course that new Res-Q-Rench. Seat belt cutter, window punch, spanner for all hoses, pyr-bar, oxygen shut off, residential gas shut-off...all in one piece.

[west30capt]

Here is a list of what I carry. Which is pretty much what everyone else carries.

(1)Spanner wrench-has gas shut-off, hammer head, and pry type end on it.
(1)Leatherman Tool
(1)I think it's 13/16 inch wrench(Fits GM battery terminals)
(4)Film containers with latex cloves. 1 of those is on my helmet
(1)Film container with about 3 sets of ear plugs
also have belt glove pouch attached to my suspenders w/ 2 pairs of gloves in it.
(1)Pair of Trauma shears
(1)Center Punch
(3)Wedges 1 of those is on my helmet.
A handful of golf tees.
A pair of eye protection glasses
A lighter
(3)Packs of matches
A pack of Cigs
Pair of rescue gloves
(2)Pair of leather gloves(I hate wet gloves, just a pet-peve)
A garrity light on my helmet.

And some junk that includes:
One empty pack of cigs
An extinquisher pin
Two wrappers from blow-pops
Friction loss cards(that I never used)
Hood ornament's from a Mercedez-Benz
and a VW
A small "NO Smoking" sign that is burned on one side

That's it. I think I'll use this time to throw that junk away.

Oh yeah! I forgot my nomex hood attaced to the collar.

[This message has been edited by west30capt (edited December 22, 1999).]

[craig7404]

I try to keep it simple so my coat and pants are light as possible.
1 2 cell mag light in left shoulder front pocket, 1 pair fire gloves in right lower coat pocket, 1 nomex hood inside coat pocket.
small hand ax in left lower coat pocket. Pants pockets right leg EMS holster with Truma shears, window punch, bandage scissors,
a writting pen, mini mag light, and two pair of latex gloves. Left leg pocket a pair of leather gloves for rescue work. Thats it basicly simple and light weight.

------------------
Good Luck And Be Safe
Captain
Craig Lambert

[craig7404]

I try to keep it simple so my coat and pants are light as possible.
1 2 cell mag light in left shoulder front pocket, 1 pair fire gloves in right lower coat pocket, 1 nomex hood inside coat pocket.
small hand ax in left lower coat pocket. Pants pockets right leg EMS holster with Truma shears, window punch, bandage scissors,
a writting pen, mini mag light, and two pair of latex gloves. Left leg pocket a pair of leather gloves for rescue work. Thats it basicly simple and light weight.

------------------
Good Luck And Be Safe
Captain
Craig Lambert

[Romania]

Well, I just revised what I carry the other day (I needed to clean out my pockets), so I took inventory and here is what I have now.

(1) 4-in-1 screwdriver (a big one)
(1) medium sized waterpump pliers
(1) heavy cable/wire cutters
(1) 20' of 1" webbing and two carbiners
(1) 50' of 5mm utility rope and two carabiners
(1) pair of trauma shears
(1) folding knife
(1) TFT rescue wrench
(2) Door wedges
(2) rubber door holders
(1) Streamlight 3C flashlight (best hand light there is)
(1) gerber multi-tool on take-up strap
Assorted nails in a small PVC pipe.

The following in a 3/4" PVC pipe holder.
(1) Shove Knife
(1) 10mm/8mm open ended wrench.
(1) 5/16"-1/4" open ended wrench.
(1) center punch
(1) metal wedge/shim made out of a recipecating saw blade.
(1) L shape tool.

I carry my gloves in an aligator clip that has a split-ring on my lowest "D" ring on the ft of the coat, hood is on the door handle of the cab, spare hood is in liner of helmet.

That's about it, next time I'll write about what I carry in my little orange tool bag on the truck. And you all that think I carry too much... Well, I was a boyscout http://www.firehouse.com/interactive/boards/smile.gif

------------------
Alan Romania, CEP
romania@uswest.net
IAFF Local 3449

My Opinions do not reflect the opnions of the IAFF or Local 3449.




[This message has been edited by Romania (edited January 07, 2000).]

[Captain88]

Have a glove strap with gloves and my hood in it to free my pockets. Lots and lots of webbing for rescue of a victim and rescuing myself. Vise grips with the bolt taken out of the center and replaced with an eye bolt and a string attached to it(good for being on the roof and lowering down the vise grips to bring something to the roof, or to swing the vise grips down and break a window) pliers, fold up spanner wrench, keep my door chocks on my helmet along with flashlight.

------------------
Cappy

[PBFTRK33]

I won't even get into what I have in my pockets, it would take to long. Most important, and I did not notice to many of you carrying these, is a good set of wire cutters to be used to cut yourself, (or another firefighter), free of a wire entanglement. I carry two, one on each side of my body in case one arm is incapacitated. oh and I almost forgot, everyone has gotta have a GRANOLA BAR somewhere in all that stuff!

Jim Crawford
Pittsburgh Bureau of Fire
Truck Company 33

[BFD 210]

lets see

55 ft of 7mm rope in a bag to get the hell out with
15 feet of 1/2 webbing to drag something with
door stop straps, to hold open and mark doors
leaterman,to cut,clip,crimp and screw with
elect. tape for what u use elect. tape for
friction loss slide rule,so i can get it right
radio (sometimes)
carabiner, i dont know why
2 hoods, cuz somebody is always forgetting, losing one including me
gloves
latex gloves

I think thats it

stay safe brothers

[SKEETER243]

Years ago my turnout pockets were laden with many different tools. I have found that there are really only a few tools that you actually need in an 'emergency situation'. If there's no emergency then you have time to go back to the truck to get what you need, it can be very cumbersome carrying the extra weight and too many tools will simply get lost in the pockets. Additionally, you should keep the items in the same pocket all the time and you must know where they are in order to retreive them in the dark, smoke or hurried situation. Here's a list of pockets and their contents:

Radio pocket: Portable radio

Turnout Coat: Adjustable water pump pliers a
a window punch

Turnout Coat - inside: Nomex Hood

Bunker Pants (lt side): Both gloves

Bunker Pants (rt side): 30'x1/2" utility rope
Light weight multi- purpose spanner
wrench (aluminum)

Helmet: Rubber straps


This arrangement has proven succesful for me. You must experiment with different tools and pocket arrangments until you feel comfortable with what you're carrying and decide if the amount of usage justifies you carrying that tool or item all the time.

GOOD LUCK.

[SKEETER243]

Years ago my turnout pockets were laden with many different tools. I have found that there are really only a few tools that you actually need in an 'emergency situation'. If there's no emergency then you have time to go back to the truck to get what you need, it can be very cumbersome carrying the extra weight and too many tools will simply get lost in the pockets. Additionally, you should keep the items in the same pocket all the time and you must know where they are in order to retreive them in the dark, smoke or hurried situation. Here's a list of pockets and their contents:

Radio pocket: Portable radio

Turnout Coat: Adjustable water pump pliers a
a window punch

Turnout Coat - inside: Nomex Hood

Bunker Pants (lt side): Both gloves

Bunker Pants (rt side): 30'x1/2" utility rope
Light weight multi- purpose spanner
wrench (aluminum)

Helmet: Rubber straps


This arrangement has proven succesful for me. You must experiment with different tools and pocket arrangments until you feel comfortable with what you're carrying and decide if the amount of usage justifies you carrying that tool or item all the time.

GOOD LUCK.

[SKEETER243]

Years ago my turnout pockets were laden with many different tools. I have found that there are really only a few tools that you actually need in an 'emergency situation'. If there's no emergency then you have time to go back to the truck to get what you need, it can be very cumbersome carrying the extra weight and too many tools will simply get lost in the pockets. Additionally, you should keep the items in the same pocket all the time and you must know where they are in order to retreive them in the dark, smoke or hurried situation. Here's a list of pockets and their contents:

Radio pocket: Portable radio

Turnout Coat: Adjustable water pump pliers a
a window punch

Turnout Coat - inside: Nomex Hood

Bunker Pants (lt side): Both gloves

Bunker Pants (rt side): 30'x1/2" utility rope
Light weight multi- purpose spanner
wrench (aluminum)

Helmet: Rubber straps


This arrangement has proven succesful for me. You must experiment with different tools and pocket arrangments until you feel comfortable with what you're carrying and decide if the amount of usage justifies you carrying that tool or item all the time.

GOOD LUCK.

[mfgentili]

I have noticed the things I carry seem to mysteriously move from pocket to pocket so here's my list in no particular pocket location or order:

Firefighting gloves.
P2 medical gloves.
Spare Nomex hood (one also carried inside helmet).
50' of 1/4" nylon parachute cord w/snap hook.
20' of 1" tubular webbing.
2 locking caribiners.
Seat belt cutter.
Trauma shears.
Combination spanner wrench/pry tool/gas shut-off.
Garrity disposable flashlight (for backup use).
Whistle.
Reading glasses, pen, small note pad.
Shrade Multi Tool carried in sheath on belt.


------------------
Mike Gentili, Capt.
New Bedford Fire Dept.

[Aerial 131]

I tried to read through a bunch of these and gave up, I was impressed by what we all carry. Talk about planning ahead from A to Z.

My list for my career department is below but almost the same for my volunteer one:

1. radio top right pocket
2. Super saber light on strap outside same pocket
3. PADI(personnel Radcon dosimtry Instruments) & Radcon pencils on other top pocket strap outside
4. Lower pocket coat right side: P2, pen, ear plugs, & Little Pard'er locator
5. Other pocket: 3 tire tube rubber bands, electrical dikes, & spring loaded center punch
6. Fire gloves in lower right pants pocket
7. Work gloves & 2 utility straps connected with a heavy carabiner
Don

------------------

[E229Lt]

In my "USELESS" coat pockets you will find:
1. Gauntlet style gloves.
2. 40' kernmantle rope w/clips
3. Plastic fog tip from a standpipe.
4. H.D. cable shears.
5. Electrical tape
6. 4 way screwdriver
7. 3 chocks
8. 3 hinge blocks
9. Monkey wrench
10. Lockpick set
11. HUD elevator key and 1620 key.
(NOTE: all the small handtools are in an old glove for storage)

In the inside coat pockets:
1. Hood
2. Latex gloves
3. Oneway mask
4. One bandana, (Priceless)

Attached to the left breast of my coat:
1. A pull out knife, there when I need it, no searching through my pokets.

Keeping my handtools inside an old glove has cut down my search for "borrowed" tools from my pockets by 75%. Whenever the guys are working on something in the house and need a tool, the hands begin plunging into coats on the rack. Once they feel what they need they use it. Seldom do they remember which coat it came from and it goes into the wrong pocket. In my coat they just feel a glove and move on. I know this only happens in my company though.

Note 2: the plastic fog tip is great for a quick vent while the truck opens up. We use all solid bore stacks and the fog tip screws on quick after knockdown. Weight= 3-5 oz.

[This message has been edited by E229lt (edited May 28, 2000).]

[This message has been edited by E229lt (edited May 29, 2000).]

[airpack]

I carry A 6' looped 1" nylon web for a hose rope to handle the 2 1/2", a gerber multi tool, a spare mini mag, and a 15' 1" nylon web for bailout. I carry all that in my bunker bellow pockets.My radio pocket is occupied with safety glasses in a sheath.Always seems like the glasses provided are never there,or to scratched to see which way is up.The hose rope Idea is one the best ideas yet for me anyhow.

[airpack]

I carry A 6' looped 1" nylon web for a hose rope to handle the 2 1/2", a gerber multi tool, a spare mini mag, and a 15' 1" nylon web for bailout. I carry all that in my bunker bellow pockets.My radio pocket is occupied with safety glasses in a sheath.Always seems like the glasses provided are never there,or to scratched to see which way is up.The hose rope Idea is one the best ideas yet for me anyhow.I also carry a handful of 16d 3" concrete nails these nails work great for door blocks if jammed into the jamb itself or a screwhead in the hinge and they only cost about a penny a piece!!

[FFCode3EMT]

All the items that I carry I have used many times. In my left coat pocket, I keep a Fire/Rescue field guide for reference. In my right coat pocket I have a pair of of Salvation Army gloves. I have a glove pouch on my suspenders. In my left pants pocket I have a writing pen, Gerber multi tool, Sabre light, and door wedge. In my right pants pocket, I have my Nomex hood, Res Q Rench, and door wedge.

[FFTrainer]

I passed this one up earlier in the year, but not this time so here goes!

Coat Pockets: Nothing (actually maybe a seatbelt cutter, but I think that was "borrowed")!!! I can't get to them wearing a pack.

Left Leg:
* 10' 1" webbing loop tied with water knot.
* 25' 3/8 rope. Was lifeline, now demoted to search/utility rope.
* locking carabiner
* 18' non-looped 1" webbing
* 2 door/sprinkler chocks

Right leg:
* Leatherman multi-purpose tool.
* 4-in-1 screwdriver
* Spring loaded punch
* 2 folding spanners
* backup flashlight
* wire shears

For anything structure fire related, I also wear the leather "Truckman's belt" with a Bail-out kit attached. The kit is made of 50' of lifeline, 2 locking carabiners, one descender, and a sewn loop of 1" webbing to make a quick harness out of.

[FFShooty]

Here goes....some probably a repeat, but this works for me nevertheless.

Exterior Coat Pockets:
1. Folding Spanner ( One in each pocket)
2. Leatherman Tool (in sheath)
3. Door Chocks (one in each pocket)
4. 15' 1 inch webbing for bailout
5. Spring loaded Center Punch
6. Seat Belt Cutter
7. Leather Gloves for extrication
8. Vision-Flex Goggles (in hard case)

Interior Pocket:
1. Extra Hood ( Also one inside helmet)
2. Latex Gloves
3. CPR Mask
4. Baseball Cap (in need of a wash)

I use a glove strap to hang my gloves on my turnout coat, and also use a lite tracker strobe, clipped to the outside of my coat.

This might have been a simple question, but like most topics...some great ideas came out of it. Stay Safe.

------------------
Go Right for Sirens and Lights!

[chiefjay4]

Gloves

[MtnFire]

Busy Volunteer Rural Mountain Fire District, we may be working more than 100' from the nearest truck and do few fires (except wildland - no bunkers then) mostly MVA's & EMS.
Hood held by throat strap on coat (always worn).
BK Radio in right chest pocket (usually in
hand anyway).
Coat outside left - many pairs EMS gloves.
Coat outside right - 20' 4400# webbing w/
carabiner, used for bailout, tool hoist,
and many other things.
Coat inside - Pump calculator, HazMat card,
pen, note pad (gets wet and replaced
often).
Left thigh - 4 chocks, structure gloves (on
top), leather work gloves (on bottom).
Right thigh - 4' 9000# webbing loop with
large steel 'biner for use as hose tool,
window punch, pliers w/ wire cutters, mini-
mag light (what a pain to walk in, but I
use them all).

Over the years I've quit carrying a lot of stuff or lost a lot. My leatherman tools are always getting borrowed and lost and I got tired of replacing them. The 20' strap gets replaced regularly as I use it for numerous things.

[Matthias]

My department (germany):
Our jacket has three pockets, two for some equipment, one radio-pocket. We have a belt with a small axe, a carabine. I myself take to every response:
latex gloves, door chocks, pen, nomex-mask, soem tool we (EMT) use to cut of cloths (forgot the word in english http://www.firehouse.com/interactive/boards/wink.gif). no pockets on our pants (useless at all). For details about german FF-tool - email me!
Stay save out there.

[Matthias]

My department (germany):
Our jacket has three pockets, two for some equipment, one radio-pocket. We have a belt with a small axe, a carabine. I myself take to every response:
latex gloves, door chocks, pen, nomex-mask, soem tool we (EMT) use to cut of cloths (forgot the word in english http://www.firehouse.com/interactive/boards/wink.gif). no pockets on our pants (useless at all). For details about german FF-tool - email me!
Stay save out there.

[SRFD3114]

Coat Pockets:
Inside: Bandana
Kleenex in ziploc bag
Left: Tums
6" Vise Grips
Right: 10' 1" Webbing
PASS Devise
Radio: 25' Rope & 2 Carabiners
Pants Pockets:
Left: Small Evidence Can
Nomex Hood
Res-Q-Rench
6" Wire Cutter
Right: Change For Vending Machines
Evidence Tags
Writing Instruments(Pens/Pencils)
Leather Extrication Gloves
Suspenders: Serrated Lockblade Knife
Helmet: Mini Q4 Flashlight

Radio worn inside coat in New York style case & strap.

[Steven Wart]

This is the easiest question to answer, that is why you have so many responses. I'm an old Boy Scout some 35 years ago, I carry everything just like the new guy. Inside coat pocket/ hood, pen, speaker-mike, ear plugs. Bunker pants/ 50' rescue rope, 15' 3/8" nylon rope, Hose rope (hand made - loop on one end/snap hook on other end), 6" adjustable wrench, 3D maglight, diagonal wire cutters, 1/2" - 9/16" open-end wrench, HD wire cutters, folding spanner, fire gloves. Gut belt/ locking knife, leatherman tool, figure 8, caribeener, single rope rescue pulley, leather rescue gloves, Beil tool, latex gloves, $20 dollar bill, flow charts.
The motto for boy scouts is be prepared.
I also carry all the training & experience my head will hold.
Never allow us to be without the tools we need, to protect us and the public we serve.

[This message has been edited by Steven Wart (edited June 25, 2000).]

[Firefighter194]

Have a total of 6 pockets on my turnout gear "fire department issued". I carry 2 nomex hoods, leatherman, fire gloves, leather rescue gloves, safety glasses, collapsable spanner wrench, saber light, 50' Rescue Rope with carabeaner.

Firefighter 194

------------------
Never pet a burning dog!

[eva35]

In addition to all the equipment mentioned, for us stupid people that smoke (lol), I keep my smokes in a plastic soap dish. You know, the ones you buy at stores for traveling? It's just the right size, and keeps the smokes from getting wet or crushed.

[Resq14]

[This message has been edited by Resq14 (edited September 27, 2000).]

[ccomper]

Hmmmm

Okay – in the two bunker pants pockets I carry: 1 pair of fire gloves, 1 pair of leather work gloves, 1 center punch, 1 pair of beat up safety glasses, and 1 fifteen foot piece of webbing.

On the suspenders are a pouch for rubbers gloves and a multi tool. (like a Leatherman, but cheap, so you can afford to loose them)

The bunker coat has a radio pocket which I never carry my portable in, because when I do, it normally falls onto a floor with a 1” of water and ash. So instead I carry one piece of child’s play-chalk for marking doors, stairways, walls etc. Not for body outlines!!! On the outside collar is were I keep my hood attached with a Velcro strap. In the inside coat pocket is a good pair of safety glasses for vehicle extrication and an extra hood for when things are real hot, I don’t burn my little ears. However, it’s a good idea to put it on before you go in, because it’s real tough to get in that pocket with an SCBA on.

On the helmet are four wedges, a flashlight, and on the inside in a pouch is ID and medical information.

One thing I started to take on calls with me is a duffle bag!!! The contents include: pair of socks, pair of sweat paints, tee shirt, sweat shirt, shoes, underwear, and an extra pair of fire gloves. Ever go on a HazMat call and come home naked?????

Originally posted by jpm:
what is standard issue for your department?

what extra goodies do you carry to get the job done?

WHO WOULD OF IMAGINED A SILLY QUESTION OF MINE WOULD GET SO MANY RESPONSES.

THANK YOU ALL VERY MUCH

[This message has been edited by jpm (edited October 13, 1999).]

[jab1415]

The usuals: Hood, Firefighting gloves, Extrication gloves, pelican light with back-up disposable light, 2 folding spanners, a few pairs of latex gloves, safety glasses, speaker mic for MT1000, spare battery radio, leatherman tool, and a friction loss wheel

[Lewiston2Capt]

Lets see, In my bellows pockets on my bunker pants I have 1 short lenght of rope, leather gloves, fire gloves, and a rag. Jacket pockets: safety glasses only need 'em when I am not wearing a pack. Inside jacket pocket, disposable camera, pen, note pad, hood. I put mine on before my coat.
Door wedges are on my helmet with my flash light. Should be getting goggles soon to replace safety glasses.

[FORT ff]

I am constantly changing whats in my pockets as i find what i need and don't need to carry with me.
currently i am carrying:
-super sabrelight -fire gloves
-res q wrench -nomex hood
-2 chocks -safety glasses
-rescue gloves -15' webbing
-latex gloves -St. Florian Card

if anyone has suggestions let me know.
all my best
DAN

------------------
These are my own ideas and opinions and do not reflect the Fort Washington Fire Company in anyway.

[WFDRescue2]

Commonly found in my bunker pockets
1) 15 rescue rope
2) Spanner wrench (fold up)
3) Picture of my family
4) Door Chalk

That's all...

If we get a medical, throw some gloves in...otherwise...when your crawling through a room involved your not going to need all that fun stuff that "probies" carry to snag their pants on corners and such..

Just carry the basics

[DOG 4035]

As a fireman in an Engine Company, I only carry 1 thing in my turnout pocket and that's a hose