Which sort of personal protective equipment should firefighters wear during overhaul?

Firefighters should wear full personal protective equipment (PPE) with self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA) during the overhaul phase of firefighting operations. This is crucial because, during overhaul, firefighters are often exposed to residual heat, smoke, and potentially toxic gases that can still be present even after the main fire is extinguished.

Wearing full PPE ensures that firefighters are protected from thermal hazards and physical injuries, while the SCBA provides a safe breathing environment. The SCBA is vital in this context because it filters out harmful airborne contaminants that may be lingering or produced by smoldering materials. By using both components of this protective gear, firefighters can safely conduct their work and minimize their risk of inhalation injuries and other health issues that can arise from exposure to hazardous atmospheres.

In contrast, alternatives such as turnout gear without SCBA may leave firefighters vulnerable to inhaling toxic fumes, while regular uniform clothing does not provide adequate protection from heat or toxic exposure at all. Level A or B suits are typically reserved for situations with known hazardous materials rather than the general overhaul operations firefighters encounter.