What type of PPE is primarily used to protect firefighters from thermal hazards?

Firefighters are exposed to extreme heat and flames during emergencies, making effective protection from thermal hazards essential. Fire-resistant coats are specifically designed to provide this type of protection. These coats are made from materials that resist ignition and have insulating properties to help shield the firefighter from high temperatures, radiant heat, and potential flames.

In addition to the fire-resistant outer shell, these coats often include features such as reflective trim for visibility and moisture barriers to enhance safety during firefighting operations. The ability of these coats to withstand thermal hazards is critical, as it allows firefighters to perform their duties more safely and effectively in hazardous environments.

While other types of personal protective equipment, such as Nomex gloves or steel-toed boots, serve important roles in protecting different aspects of a firefighter's safety, they are not primarily designed to address thermal hazards in the same way that fire-resistant coats are. The self-contained breathing apparatus, although crucial for protecting against smoke and toxic gases, does not directly provide protection from thermal exposure, reinforcing the coat's vital role in thermal hazard protection.