Firefighter helmets are an iconic piece of clothing/safety equipment. While designs vary, especially between structural and wildland firefighters’ helmets, all are designed with the individual’s protection, comfort, and specific duties in mind. Even so, while some designs and features remain standard and unchangeable, the future promises several design changes and additions that will help firefighters perform their jobs with greater efficiency. Here are three trends to know about the future of the firefighter helmet.
Smart Helmets
As technology advances, formerly sizable devices can now be condensed into smaller and more portable ones. Computers that once filled entire rooms have been reduced to even smarter ones that can fit into your pocket. It will be the same with firefighter helmets. Communication devices and computers that can fit onto a helmet without excessive weight will become part of a regular firefighter’s headgear. Also, visors will be able to provide thermal imaging and immediate information of the location and temperature of specific parts of a blaze. Maps and room layouts can also be acquired and provided via virtual reality software.
Upgraded Materials
Materials used in firefighters’ helmets continue to be upgraded. Fiberglass and thermoplastics grow lighter without sacrificing protection, relieving firefighters of stress on their necks and backs while still deflecting debris. That lightness combined with new designs will also keep firefighters cooler, reducing the potential for heat stress, which can cause heat rash, exhaustion, cramps, and heat stroke. Further in the future, impact-hardening liquid crystal fibers or graphene-coated fabrics may be developed to aid helmets in providing even more protection.
Open Communication
Firefighters already incorporate communication devices for staying in touch during a conflagration, but many are attached to the helmets. Future helmets will incorporate hands-free, Bluetooth-connected comm devices, helm-mounted cameras, and the ability to live stream each firefighter’s point of view, allowing better coordination of their efforts, personnel tracking, and management of firefighting resources. When seconds count and chaos reigns, the ability to know where everyone is all at once will save more property, wildland, and lives.
That’s a brief look at the future of the firefighter helmet with three trends to know about. If you need more information on wildland fire helmets and other equipment, contact us for a consultation. We’re available to talk about what your squad and location need. As you await the arrival of the above trends, know that today’s technology offers plenty of protection. Reach out to us today. We look forward to hearing from you!