What is Bunker Gear?

Bunker gear is the protective suit firefighters wear when fighting fires or responding to a disaster or accident. Fire retardant outerwear is also commonly referred to as"turnout gear." Although firefighter gear is available in multiple colors, the standards set by the National Firefighter Protection Association are adhered to by manufacturers. Wildland firefighter turnout gear is always yellow and protects firefighters from flames while allowing the freedom of movement required to hike rugged trails during brush or forest fires. Reflective tape on firefighter gear allows first responders to be easily spotted inside both burning buildings and on roadways.

Jackets

Jackets are made of fire retardant materials such as Nomex or Kevlar. The jackets are comprised of three layers with the pockets and rings to attached tools.Jackets weigh approximately ten to fifteen pounds without a personal breathing apparatus (SCBA) attached. The middle layer of the bunker gear serves as a moisture barrier to keep the firefighter dry as perspiration is released. The inner layers of the coat are comprised of a protective thermal liner. .

Pants

Firefighter pants or coveralls are made of Nomex or Kevlar. A thick layer of material protects both legs and the mid-section from the heat of flames and insulates the body from cold temperatures while at disaster or accident scenes. Firefighter pants are durable often featuring reinforced knees, seat and cuffs. Suspenders are used to attach bunker gear trousers to the firefighter's shoulders. The bunker gear pants feature deep cargo pockets to aid in the packing of flashlights and small tools.

Boots

Boots are also important part of a firefighter's gear. Heavy duty boots are made from fire retardant leather or rubber. The boots are designed to slide snugly onto the firefighter's legs and fit inside the coveralls or trousers. The boots feature puncture resistant plate and a steel toe insert. Typically firefighters also wear a hood made of Nomex material under their fire helmets to protect their neck and sides of the face. The Nomex hood offers extra protection from the flames should a firefighter's helmet get knocked off while fighting a fire.

Gloves

A firefighter's gloves are similar to standard heavy-duty work gloves. The gloves of fire retardant materials. Some fire departments require specific gloves for fighting fires and working to free victms during accidents. Extrication gloves must allow a firefighter full use of his fingers to work the power tools commonly used to rescue victims at accident and disaster scenes.