Firefighters are known for rushing towards any danger. No matter the time of day or night, they are there to help those in need. Yet, for them to be able to help others, they must first be prepared themselves.

Each fire station and truck has its fire fighting equipment list that they must check to ensure that should the need arise, they are fully prepared to handle whatever may come their way.

Let’s take a quick look at some items that are on this list and how firefighters stay prepared to respond to anything.

Fire Fighting Equipment List

Everyone should always have a fire fighting equipment list available to them for their home, auto, and office building. Each listing will encompass things that need to be on hand at all times and each location will need something different.

Items to keep in a car.

Small fire extinguishers are available for purchase that are specifically made for your vehicle. You will want to make sure that the rating for this particular extinguisher is rated as class B or C. And you will want to keep it in your trunk at all times.

You may never need to use this extinguisher (and we hope you don’t) but the last place you want to find yourself is in a situation where you need it and do not have it. Other emergency items for your car to keep on hand are a fire blanket, flashlights, drinking water, reflective gear, first aid kit, jumper cables, spare tire and jack, and a portable radio in the event your cell phone is rendered unusable.

Having these items on hand will help contain fires, minimize damages and keep you safe until help arrives.

Equipment to keep in buildings

Most small fires that occur in buildings can be contained or extinguished before ever reaching the level where there is mass destruction. If you are going to attempt to extinguish any type of fire that starts in your home, you must first realize that not all fires are the same, but chances are if you have a fire extinguisher- that will do the trick but never risk your safety or the safety of those you love. Always call the fire department when needed.

Every building should have fire safety equipment at the ready. There is general fire fighting equipment that every home, business, and every building ever, should always have available. This list includes items such as fire extinguishers, fire hose, automatic sprinkler systems, and some form of fire hydrant system.

Fire Extinguishers

Fire extinguishers are standard in every home, but you should know the difference between the class of fire extinguishers. There are five classes of extinguishers.

Class A extinguishes wood, paper, cardboard, and plastic. Class B extinguishes items such as oil, gas, and other flammable liquids.

Class C extinguishes electrical fires. Class D extinguishes any type of metal fire. Class k extinguishes any kind of cooking fires that result from oils and cooking grease.

Fire Doors

Fire doors are another option that many commercial businesses, hospitals, schools, and other organizations utilize to keep fires contained should the unthinkable occur. These doors are not fireproof but rather fire-resistant. Standard doors burn quickly, but fire doors are built in such a way that it takes a very long time for them to burn to allow time for you and your loved ones to get to safety.

Fire Hose

While most single-family dwellings will not have a fire hose, these tools can be found in apartment homes and other commercial businesses. With more than one type of hose available, it’s best to consult with a company that specializes in fire safety equipment to determine what is best suited for your needs.

There are many different types of fire hose available. Attack fire hose is the most common and most widely known as this is one that transports water and other chemicals to put out a fire. There are also forestry-based fire hose, relay-based fire hose, hard suction fire hose, and booster fire hose available. The fire fighting equipment list that is needed in every home is extensive and should be reviewed annually when the equipment is inspected.

Fire Hydrants 

According to various laws, most buildings must be within a specified distance of a fire hydrant. The same is said for homes or most residential areas; however, that is not always the case.

Thankfully you can purchase a fire hydrant for your home and add it to your fire fighting equipment list.

Fire Blanket

Fire blankets are a must. Should anyone catch on fire for any reason throwing any type of blanket on them is a risk if that particular blanket is made of flammable materials. If this is the case, then you are only adding fuel to the fire.

Fire blankets are specially created to extinguish a flame without the risk. It is cost-effective, which makes it ideal for any home, office, or for keeping within arms reach.

Staying Safe

No matter if your fire fighting equipment list is for your home, office, or items you keep in your vehicle—everyone should know where theirs is located at all times. These lists should be checked annually along with the equipment that they specify.

Should you need any new fire fighting equipment or replacement parts, or if you just want advice on what you should keep handy, never hesitate to give us a call. You can also find out more details on equipment and other items by visiting our website for more information.