SHACOG Technical Rescue Team

Why do we wear what we do?

 

The Technical Rescue Team member is issued specialty gear that is not what the normal firefighter or paramedic wears for their everyday work.  A Firefighter’s turnout gear is designed for operations in a building that is on fire, not for rescue operations.   It is heavy and bulky, like wearing a snow suit when you really need dexterity on a rescue scene.   The Rope/Trench/Confined Space/Industrial rescue gear is very basic.  A rescue helmet;  this helmet is very different from a fire helmet.  A fire helmet has a wide brim to keep water off the wearer.  A rescue helmet has a 4 point restraint system,  does not have the wide brim so it can fit into tight places and has a light mounted to the helmet.      The other PPE worn by the team member is very close to construction type work clothing.  BDU pants with built in knee pads, long sleeve safety yellow moisture wicking t-shirts and sweat shirts, eye protection, rescue gloves, and rope rescue gloves.  A safety yellow rain suit, chore coat and insulated bibs for cold weather operations and a type III harness for rope, tower, and confined space rescues. 

 

The water rescue division wears a Mustang dry suit, type V PFD, water rescue helmet, water boots and gloves.  Why would we dress out in this outfit to walk into flood water?  Because of what is in flood water i.e. sewage, chemicals, bacteria, etc.   Normal clothing and turnout gear does not protect you from these hazards.   Firefighters and Paramedics should never enter water without being protected.