KILL DEVIL HILLS, N.C. — While most of us stay inside to avoid the sweltering temperatures, that's not an option for our first responders.
What You Need To Know
Firefighters are training 365 days a year, in all types of weather conditions
The Kill Devil Hills fire department members stay hydrated and remove their gear quickly to avoid getting too hot
Heat-related medical calls can increase in extreme temperatures
For firefighters loaded with gear these temperatures can be very dangerous, but they take precautions to keep cool in extreme situations.
Michael Phan, a firefighter with Kill devil Hills fire station, says crews suit up in over 65 pounds of equipment to protect them from the heat of the flames.
“So when we get tapped out for a bell or a call we have a turnout time of approximately two minutes so we have to don our gear within two minutes time to get down the road,” Phan said.
While the gear does retain heat, it also protects the from the heat of flames.
With temperatures in the 90s this week Phan says having the right gear is as important as being able to take it off quickly so they don't overheat.
“As we are working out on the asphalt working motor vehicle wrecks or running to alarm activations in full gear we are all encapsulated in this gear,” Phan said.
They respond to more medical calls in the heat also.
The CDC says extreme heat increases risk for heat stress for those who are 65 years of age or older, are overweight, have heart disease or high blood pressure or take medications.
“I wanna make sure they're hydrating with fluids because they're expelling as quick as they're taking it in,” Phan said.
The dry and environment of the Outer Banks can make fighting fires harder and calls can keep them working for an extended period of time.
"There are events that could take hours. You get some bigger exposures, bigger structures so you know you're gonna be on scene for a longer period of time,” Phan said.
Even when the job takes a physical and mental toll they are committed to keeping their community safe.