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What’s in the Bag? A Look at Fireline Gear
Wildland firefighters depend on each other - and their gear - to get the job done safely.
It may be difficult to resupply firefighters working far from roads and vehicles, so the
gear they bring to the fireline has to meet their needs throughout the shift, and sometimes
for several shifts.
Let’s take a look at a typical fireline pack. Except for large tools, this bag carries
the bulk of what a wildland firefighter needs to work.
It has adjustable shoulder straps and hip straps.
A fire shelter may be carried on the bottom or side of the pack, if not worn on the belt.
This is a special protective tent kept in a place that’s readily accessible during
an emergency.
The top pocket is a common place to keep paperwork, including fire information, maps, pocket guides,
pens, maybe a wallet.
The side pockets can hold canteens for drinking water. Some firefighters prefer to carry water
in a collapsible bladder bag, attached to a drinking tube.
Side pockets are also a good place to keep a two-way radio handy, if it is not being
worn in a lightweight chest harness. A key to firefighter safety is maintaining communication
throughout an assignment.
Fuel for chainsaws can be carried in side pockets, too, or secured on the outside of
the pack. All firefighters may be asked to help carry fuel, if there are crew members
operating chainsaws.
Fusees used for burning operations slide snugly inside additional side pockets.
Fannel saws, or collapsible hand saws, fit well here too, and can be invaluable tools
in many situations.
The front pocket is a good place for extra batteries for the radio. These are sometimes
carried in a plastic case or clamshell.
A portable GPS can also be carried here or in the top pocket for easy access.
A pocket lighter is kept in an easy-to-reach place.
A knife is also readily accessible – many firefighters carry multi-purpose tools.
A watch is important too.
Sunglasses and safety glasses may be kept in impact-resistant cases.
Some firefighters carry a camera for documentation.
In the main compartment of the fireline pack, food takes up major space – whether a meal-ready-to-eat,
a bag lunch, or protein bars. Additional water bottles may be kept here as well.
Extra socks, raingear, and warm clothes may be carried, depending upon weather forecasts.
A raintarp or smaller tarp commonly known as a space blanket is helpful in wet weather,
for a bit of extra shelter.
Toilet paper is not to be forgotten. A toothbrush, floss and toothpaste are also items soon missed
when left behind.
A small first aid kit is a good idea. Foot blister bandages are a helpful item to include,
especially when boots are new.
Firefighters trained as emergency medical technicians or EMTs, usually carry a more
complete kit of first-aid supplies.
And firefighters working with chainsaws will carry extra fuel cans, repair tools, wedges
and saw replacement parts.
The pack’s main compartment is a good place to carry bulky items, such as fire hose nozzles
or other hardware.
Rolled up bladder bags can also be strapped on top, depending upon the demands of the
day’s shift.
Through experience, wildland firefighters develop a dependable routine when packing
their fireline gear.
This is Russ Babiak with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service.