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Comment by Chaas (smack happy) Thompson on May 8, 2013 at 8:03pm

My department gives gear that was worn before but they make sure it fits properly

Comment by Heather on April 22, 2013 at 6:32pm

Thank you Jeff! I never thought about the type that my future Department would use. I think I will rent from the school, my thing was it's $1100.00 to rent, I thought uh I might as well get my own for that price! But now I see what you mean though. It probably is best. I've been looking at other places to rent from I knew about the NFPA 1971 Standards but to though it probably is best to get from the school. I was looking at sizing so I have an idea by measurements what I'd take and I'd be a large so that shouldn't be too hard to come by right? Most schools would carry a Large wouldn't they? I really appreciate your feedback! Be safe out there!

Comment by Jeff Teeters on April 21, 2013 at 11:46pm

As far as sizing for turnout gear goes, most generally the vendor selling it will size you for it.  Personally fit gear is amazing, but also very expensive.  You're looking at a couple thousand dollars at least depending on the brand required.  Renting it from the school won't--or shouldn't be a bad experience.  They'll find you a set that fits and make sure that you're in compliance with  NFPA 1971 Standards.  I do admire your dedication but at the same time, say you buy a set and the Department you get on doesn't use that particular brand.  You're out all that money.  The choice is ultimately yours, so I hope that whatever you do works out for you in the end.  Be safe, my friend.

Comment by Heather on April 21, 2013 at 5:03pm

So I've been doing a lot of research on bunker gear, does anyone have problems with it fitting properly? I've been reading some things about how gear doesn't fit properly in rented gear or when you get on a Department you just get whatever someone else had as long as it fits doesn't mean fits properly. I also read that females have problems with the hips as far as the pants go? I wear mens EMS pants b/c of the fact it's waste size you know what your getting just make them shorter being I'm 5'5". I haven't had any problems with mens uniforms not fitting maybe in the butt area since mine is curvy lol but I know bunker gear is different. I agree with you too though Nancy why spend money when can rent, but I also want to make sure I'm covered so I don't get burned by not have a sealed fit. I know nothing about bunker gear so if anyone has any input feel free. Thank you! 

Comment by Heather on April 20, 2013 at 9:31pm

Thank you for the suggestion! I will do that! I appreciate it!

Comment by Heather on April 19, 2013 at 8:23pm

For skills the college says you can rent gear for $1000.00. I was looking at the NFPA guidelines of course on bunker gear my question is..... is it better to rent the gear for that price or buy my own Bunker Gear after approval from my school that it meets the NFPA guidelines?  I found some from Globe for under $1000.00, I'm looking at if I buy it I can wear it and get used to it before the skills date and be comfortable as can be plus have the time to practice running stairs etc with it on for endurance I will be used to the extra weight. But is it worth it? Plus I wouldn't know where to begin as far as sizing. What is your advice on the subject.