That is correct, in San Francisco we are not required to wear our turn-out pants at all. We still wear wool pants during the day, but wear our turn-out pants at night due to the ease of getting into them. I'm sure this sounds crazy to many other fireman, but I feel fortunate to have the option of wearing my wool pants. I would hate to have to wear the bunker gear we have been issued all day. I find it too restrictive and cumbersome, particularly while on a peaked roof. I can understand how a person can overheat and dehydrate themselves. I am sure there are better products out there. As far as safety, I have, unfortunately, been caught in a flashover while wearing my wool pants and they protected me very well. It wasn't luck because I did get burned, but not on my legs. The wool did what it has done for so long. I'm sure there is bunker gear out there that is much better than the stuff I have, but no thanks. I'll wear my wool pants until they are no longer an option.
Stay Safe!
Stay Safe!
Comment