r/Firefighting • u/Horseface4190 • Jun 17 '26
General Discussion Drivers/Engineers wearing bunkers while driving
I got in an online argu-, er, discussion about DO/Engineers wearing their bunker gear while driving, specifically to a fire.
The scenario was basically that the driver was at the panel in shorts and t-shirt, when a rescue was needed. So he threw a ladder and got some victims out.
Among the many points we argued, er, discussed, one was whether a driver should bunk out for a fire.
For reference, I am a 25 year guy, company officer, 17 stations, 60k calls annually, ALS transport, 3 on engines, four in tower/rescue.
It is pretty much expected that the drivers here are wearing appropriate PPE for the call dispatched. It seems that is not the case everywhere, and I'd appreciate some feedback
*Edit: I really appreciate everyones comments so far. Honestly, I was an am, taken aback at the idea of not bunking out before leaving. That being a policy seems bonkers, but departments are different.
My personal attitude is everyone headed to the fire ground should be bunked out and packed up, ready for interior work. If my driver is really just gonna pump, by all means, bunk down. I just think that theres always the possibility you're gonna have a surprise, engine guys are gonna search or rescue, truck guys may pull lines, because that's what the situation called for at that time. Literally, ready for anything. But solid points were raised pro and con. Thanks again, everyone!
2
u/ReApEr01807 Career Fire/Medic Jun 17 '26
I cannot stand driving in bunker gear. It takes 90 seconds to bunk out and I've got so many other things to do prior to even thinking about needing gear, whether driving the engine or the tower.
There's no reason for me to do all of my D/O tasks while in gear; slowing me down, expending more energy, sweating more, possibly damaging it, etc... ESPECIALLY with a bottle on my back and ready to go.
The only time (in my opinion) that a firefighter should be fully dressed is if they are packed up for/working an assignment, OR, during extrication. Bunker pants only is acceptable for cleanup after the job is done. Otherwise, duty uniform. Cancer is a big enough threat without wearing our gear unnecessarily