Do Firefighters Get Set on Fire During Training?

Firefighters do not get set on fire as part of their training, contrary to popular belief. Instead, they undergo rigorous training that includes controlled exposure to fire in safe environments. Safety and skill development are the primary focuses of their training regimens. This article explores the misconception and discusses the actual training methods used by firefighters.

Understanding the Training Methods

Firefighters do not risk being set on fire to learn about fire behavior. This is not a practice that aligns with the values of safety that the fire service holds dear. Engaging in such activities would expose firefighters to unnecessary danger and damage their protective gear, which is specialized to withstand extreme conditions but is not designed for intentional exposure to flames.

Live Fire Training

Firefighters practice extinguishing fires in controlled settings such as burn buildings. These environments allow them to learn how to handle real fire scenarios safely. In these controlled settings, firefighters gain valuable experience and confidence in dealing with emergencies without the risk of injury or significant material damage.

Protective Gear

Wearing specialized protective clothing and equipment is crucial for firefighters. This gear is designed to withstand extreme heat and flames, ensuring their safety during training exercises. Fire-resistant clothing, helmets, and other protective equipment are essential for conducting training on fire as they simulate real-life emergency situations.

Simulation Exercises

Firefighters also participate in simulations that mimic various emergency situations. These simulations provide a controlled environment where they can develop their skills, make decisions, and practice procedures without the risks associated with actual fires. These exercises are designed to enhance their ability to respond effectively and safely in real-life scenarios.

The Importance of Safe Training

Intentionally setting a firefighter on fire is not only dangerous but also unnecessary. While it might seem extreme, the risks involved are significant. Firefighter injury and unnecessary material damage to turnout gear (PPE) far outweigh any potential learning outcomes.

Fire training focuses on safety and the development of essential skills. The goal is to prepare firefighters to respond to emergencies effectively and safely. Fire-resistant gear is specifically designed to protect against heat through insulation, not to be set on fire. Direct flame exposure can destroy the gear and cause injury to the firefighter.

Common Firefighting Gear

Most structural firefighting gear, such as coats and pants, are designed to provide thermal protection. Too much direct flame exposure will damage the gear and put the firefighter at risk. However, there are a few specialized high-heat firefighting jobs where thermal suits are used, but these are uncommon.

National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) Training Exercises

Some training exercises, such as the room and contents fire that evolves to flashover, are designed to simulate extreme fire conditions. These environments are controlled, and firefighters learn about the dangers of flashover and other fire behaviors. Participants feel the heat, see flames, and experience the intensity of the conditions. However, these exercises are designed to be safely managed and supervised.

Personal Experience

I recall an experience where a group of us participated in a training exercise at the Rockland County Fire Training Center in Pomona, NY. The drill involved two shipping containers: the upper burn can and the lower observation can. Temperatures reached 900-1000°F at the top of the observation can and upwards of 300°F at the floor. Flames and smoke rolled over our heads, simulating the conditions leading up to flashover.

When entering the training environment, we wore full gear, including pants with boots, coats, hoods, gloves, helmets, air packs, and masks. The instructor checked and double-checked our gear to ensure it was properly fastened and secured. As we entered, the heat was intense, with flames rolling over our heads. We stayed in for a few minutes, feeling the heat on our knees and in our boots. The air in our SCBA masks became uncomfortably warm.

After exiting, we had to walk in circles to cool off, and another instructor stood by with a charged hose to cool off any firefighters who needed it. The experience was intense, but the training environment was carefully controlled to ensure our safety.

Looking in the mirror later, I noticed a red line around my face where the SCBA mask seal had been. My sweat had become so hot that it scalded my skin, giving me a sunburn-like sensation, but it was gone the next day.

This experience reinforced the importance of proper training and the protection provided by specialized gear. Firefighters do not get set on fire to learn about fire behavior. Instead, they use controlled environments to practice and develop their skills in a safe and effective manner.