What safety equipment must firefighters have when performing structural firefighting?

When firefighters are engaged in structural firefighting, it is imperative that they utilize full personal protective equipment (PPE), which includes a Self-Contained Breathing Apparatus (SCBA). This equipment is designed to provide protection against the various hazards encountered in a fire environment, such as extreme heat, smoke inhalation, and toxic gases.

Full PPE encompasses not only the SCBA but also flame-resistant clothing, helmets, gloves, and boots, all of which work together to shield firefighters from burns, impacts, and other injuries while also allowing them to breathe safely in an atmosphere that might be immediately dangerous to life or health.

In structural firefighting, the potential for rapid changes in conditions and the presence of hazardous materials makes it critical for firefighters to be equipped with comprehensive safety gear that ensures their safety and operational effectiveness.