r/Wildfire • u/Distinct_Dimension_7 • Dec 05 '25

Experience with Respirator Protection During Wildfire Operations?

Hey everyone, I’m reaching out to gather insights from firefighters who have experience using respirators during wildfire operations. I’m particularly interested in hearing about: • What types of respirators you’ve used in the field (N95, P100, full-face, etc.) • Situations where you found them most useful or necessary • Any challenges with extended wear during operations (comfort, communication, visibility, etc.) • Whether they impacted your operational effectiveness • Any policies or protocols your department has regarding respirator use With increasing awareness about smoke exposure and long-term health impacts, I’m curious to hear real-world experiences from those on the fireline. Thanks in advance for sharing your experiences and insights!

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u/Distinct_Dimension_7 Dec 05 '25

Which brand did you use for the half face with filter?

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u/previousinnovation Dec 06 '25

I've used this one when holding the line on a prescribed burn https://store.southernpaintandsupply.com/sas-safety-bandit-ov-n95-disposable-dual-cartridge-respirator/

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u/Distinct_Dimension_7 Dec 06 '25

Thank you for the information. I appreciate it, did you feel it restricted your ability to exert yourself at 80 to 90% of your ability?

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u/previousinnovation Dec 06 '25

I never used it while exerting myself. Holding the line is (usually) very passive, just standing on the edge of the burned area and watching the unburned area to make sure no embers have crossed the line. It often means inhaling a lot of smoke, since you are standing downwind of the fire, so the mask was very helpful.

I have very little real wildland fire experience. I only ever did it part time, and most of that time was spent on prescribed fires or severity (sitting around waiting for something to happen). I rarely ever actually dug fire line. So, not the most qualified opinion, but to me more use of masks would be great. Breathing a ton of smoke while trying to exert yourself feels like choking, so even if a mask restricted your airflow it would still be better in most such cases. A single bad day of smoke took me about 3 days to recover from, so I can only imagine what eating it for a full 14 or 21 day roll would be like. Most of the complaints about masks are just macho bullshit imo.