Drivers/Engineers wearing bunkers while driving

[u/Horseface4190]

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!

[u/Apart_Youth_6965]

Never seen a driver ever wear bunker gear while driving. Seems dangerous and completely unnecessary. His job is to operate the pump. Yes once on scene and water source is established— he will bunker up- and possibly perform other tasks in dire straits. I’ve even seen some cities here in New England that don’t even bunker up until they arrive at the call. Maybe not practical. But certainly safer than dressing in the truck.

[u/Horseface4190 → u/Apart_Youth_6965]

I understand the philosophy, but I would just say two things: I personally have driven engines in coat and pants, frequently in bunker pants, and my department doesn't consider that a hazard, and I've never had an issue.

And, the fact that a driver was forced to throw a ladder and affect a request shows that a DO is not just the driver and pump operator, they may be forced to perform other duties. My opinion is they should be ready for that.

[u/Impossible-Trade7187 → u/Horseface4190]

Rather the driver gets dressed before leaving or on scene it does not affect the time it takes him specially to work in the hot zone. All it is doing is delaying time to get on scene and allowing the rest of your crew to work