Firefighters train extensively in the techniques necessary to extinguish hazardous fires in a wide variety of environments, such as homes, buildings and forest land. The gear that a firefighter may wear includes not only safety and protective clothing but also specialized breathing and rescue equipment. Firefighters need to be fit and in shape, as well, because the gear they don and carry may weigh quite a bit.
Weight of Firefighter Gear
The weight of a firefighter's gear is spread over a variety of items, including a helmet, boots, coats, pants, gloves and an air pack. According to a 2010 article in the Coeur d'Alene Press, basic protective gear for a structural firefighter battling building and similar blazes is about 45 pounds. Structural firefighters also typically carry an ax, a radio and a flashlight, and possibly a thermal imaging camera for a total gear weight ranging from 66 pounds to 77 pounds.
Weight of Smoke Jumper Gear
A smoke jumper is a firefighter who specializes in parachuting into remote areas to combat wildfires. Personal protective equipment and specialized gear for a smoke jumper can weigh up to 115 pounds, according to the U.S. Forest Service.
