Fire shelters are the one tool every firefighter hopes they never have to use. Truly, the definition of the cliché, “Any port in a storm,” fire shelters are portable devices that wildland firefighters can immediately unfold and hide under if they find themselves in the path of an oncoming blaze. Fire shelters save lives by providing a measure of protection against the flames and heat, and a healthy measure of breathable air. However, fire shelters aren’t a one-size-fits-all item, so to speak. Only two sizes exist. Choosing the right size fire shelter according to the following suggestions and standards makes the difference between life and death.
Size Them Up
Fire shelters come in two basic sizes: regular and large. Choosing between them isn’t as obvious as it might seem, and it’s not just a matter of one’s gender, weight, or the like. Other factors also matter, such as comfort, mobility, and more. Keep the following things in mind when making your choice.
Regular
Most wildland firefighters make do and stay safe with the regular size. It supplies plenty of room and air for an average-sized person. Regular-sized fire shelters are ideal in terms of space and portability.
Large
Large fire shelters are, yes, good for firefighters with bigger physical builds. Larger fire shelters also grant more air volume, keeping the interior cooler during a blaze.
Picking and Choosing
So, how do you decide on the best fire shelter for your purposes? Size and weight matters, so choose a shelter that can accommodate your body type. If it’s too small, it won’t provide enough protection, will be deeply uncomfortable, and may induce claustrophobia. It will also reduce the amount of air available and the amount of protection. Larger shelters, on the other hand, are potentially harder to transport and may not be snug enough to ensure total coverage for an average-sized person.
There’s one way that both sizes are equal: deployment time. Firefighters can swiftly and safely deploy both. Still, it’s wise to get used to activating them. Find practice fire shelters in both sizes and use them during drills. Also, ask other experienced firefighters for recommendations. They may have insights that haven’t occurred to you.
Those are just a few tips for choosing the right size fire shelter. Contact us for a consultation if you have questions about our selection of fire shelters and other equipment. We look forward to hearing from you!