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?
Ummm you might want to check up on that ride in a engine because i just checked the other day with the guy who dose all the explorer stuff in are area and he checked and it said that the explorer council deemed it safe for explorers to ride in emergency vehicles with lights and sirens. Not trying to start any fights but i just checked with him like 3 weeks ago about it.
What if I am on the fireground and there is an explosion in the building from an unknown source, I wouldn't want burns on my neck or head from debris. A hood is part of my protective gear so I think I will keep it with me. Not to mention on cold winter fires it keeps me warm.
First of all, you need to be sure that you know the rules by BSA, just because you are a junior and apart of an explorer program doesn't give you entry into a live and active fire situation...inside. You are not allowed to make entry into a structure according to BSA, you can only assist....assist on the outside and maybe grab exposures.. but you are way to close in you are thinking about needing equipment in your bunker gear. And as for extrication, thats really not allowed either, because that is a very dangerous area that only experienced firefighters should be attending to.
I am not here to hate, I am just tired of seeing younger people get hurt because of a lack of judgement in a fire scene.
I agree on the paper and pen, learn as much as you can... when its your time to make entry you will... you just need to be old enough to do so.
Why don't start by reviewing the types of alarms you answer up to and then quizzing some of the veteran members in your FD to see what they are carrying.
I add and delete items on a regular basisfrom my pockets. I usually carry some rope with me to help open and keep open vehicle doores during extrication, also for securing a door from forced entry etc...
Limesman's pliers and a set of Vise Grips along with a retractable razor knife and a multi bit screwdriver anr my mainstays. I have carried shims for door opening and wedges go onto my helmets. I don't think there is any right or wrong on this but whatever seems to work best for you.
Good luck and stay safe!
I feel that one of the most important tools an explorer should carry should be the brain!! No tool will do you any good if you don't take the time to learn the tool and its uses. Too many time we see people using tool wrong ,making their task at hand that much harder! Also always be willing to learn, learning from a book will only take you so far take time time to listen to guys on your department, listen to what they have to say about calls they have been on in their career! but one of the biggest things that you need to learn before you decide what tools to carry is your district!! If you do not study and understand your distrcit the building construction and the security measures that poelple use to stay safe your not being proactive and you many be letting yourself and you partners down in the long run!
Your brain and a pen and paper. if you see something done on a scene and want to know why it was done then you can right it down and then ask the questions when you get back. That way you learn and do not forget what you had questions on.
Well in ours they carry gloves so there lil hands will not get dirty when cleaning hose and trucks &tools a nomax so if its cold there lil ears dont get cold and stay out of the way lol but i like the pen & paper thought