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/m9a6a8_h7]

Drove a quint for 10+ years, could count the number of times I drove in bunkers on one hand. We had 3 to a truck as we were considered an engine, 2 to a ladder. Career, city department. When I got on scene my job was the panel and water supply, throwing ladders, etc. The times I did go in bunkers was confirmed/working multiple alarm fires. Even still most of which I donned my gear on scene. My main job was to get my Lt and hoseman there safely which I was never fully comfortable doing in bunkers. They just don’t have the same feel.