Working as a wildland firefighter in California places you in an environment with numerous threats to your safety and health. Following the proper techniques to keep you safe and wearing protective equipment is essential to help avoid injuries. Even then, you may receive a muscle sprain or laceration, and in some scenarios, a crush, impact, or head injury could occur.
Getting burned
Being exposed to fire increases the odds of getting burned, making it a common injury to wildland firefighters. Wearing the proper protective clothing is crucial when you’re dealing with extreme heat and flames. Ensuring you have flame-resistant fabrics on should help resist burning or melting when you’re exposed to extremely high temperatures.
Lacerations and muscle sprains
Receiving a deep cut while fighting fires is common. Wearing protective clothing and equipment that fully covers your body should help keep you safe. Muscle sprains can also occur due to the rugged terrain. Staying in optimal physical shape can help combat this problem.
Head injuries
Wearing a sturdy helmet is vital when you’re working as a wildland firefighter due to the threat of receiving a head injury. This common injury related to your work can happen due to collapsing trees, falling branches, or a trip and fall.
Crush injuries
Collapsing trees and rockslides can create a crush injury quickly when you’re working as a wildland firefighter. These heavy objects can move swiftly and crush parts of your body before you realize what’s happening. Having this occur usually results in muscle injuries and broken bones.
Experiencing an impact injury
If you receive an impact injury while you’re fighting wildland fires, it is highly likely due to falling debris or a vehicle collision. Similar to other injuries you can experience, it’s essential to wear the appropriate personal protective equipment designed to help keep you safe in this hostile environment.
Knowing how you can get injured while working as a wildland firefighter is critical to protect yourself by wearing the proper equipment and clothing.