Ok so I have seen explorers carrying many different tools in their bunker/turnout gear and i wanted to know what is some suggested tools we have in our gear while we are at calls?
As an explorer you shouldn't be worried about carrying any tool in your turnouts. You should never be in a situation where you need to use tools, other than what your active firefighters are asking you to bring them. Your main concern should be watch and learn as much as you can without ever being near the hot zone of any situation.
I have gloves, a light, and a hood now, I would like to have a nice multitool with a good knife, the other night we had a fire and I had to use the utility knife off one of our trucks, it sucked... Accidentally knicked my thumb cutting plastic sheeting, really could have used a sharper knife, then it wouldn't have happened
Your an explorer and they let you go in working fires? Help with extrication? Does thier insurance cover you? I'm not trying to be critical but I have never heard of a junior going into a working fire or helping with extrication.
I know the BSA cover you as an exploerer, I was one and an eagle scout. But in order to be covered by BSA explorer insurance you cant take part in any active firefighting or ride in an engine.
Not to sound crass....BUT, the most important tool ANY firefighter can carry is his head.....Think before you act...it might save your butt....and NEVER, EVER go inside without a hand tool.....an axe or a haligan bar....I like the flat head and my partner carries a haligan....we then know what we have and we can pry, chop or pound if we have to....that will get most tasks accomplished.....Paul