When should firefighters don personal protective equipment (PPE) after being notified of an emergency response?

Firefighters should don personal protective equipment (PPE) before mounting the apparatus to ensure their safety as soon as they are notified of an emergency. This practice is vital because it allows firefighters to be fully prepared to respond immediately upon arrival at the incident site.

Wearing PPE reinforces safety measures, helping to protect firefighters from hazards they may encounter during transport and upon arrival, such as exposure to hazardous materials or physical dangers. When firefighters put on their PPE before they board the apparatus, they reduce the risk of injury and ensure that they are ready to deploy their skills and equipment as soon as they arrive at the scene.

In contrast, putting on PPE after reaching the incident site or when they arrive on scene may delay their response time and increase their vulnerability to injuries. Simply receiving training does not provide the necessary protection in a live situation; the timing of the gear donning is critical in emergency situations.