What should firefighters do with their PPE in rehabilitation?

In rehabilitation, firefighters are often in need of a rest and recovery period to restore their physical condition after intense activity. Removing personal protective equipment (PPE) allows firefighters to cool down effectively, rehydrate, and rest without the added stress and heat that wearing the gear can cause. Keeping the equipment on can exacerbate fatigue and increase the risk of heat-related illnesses.

Moreover, by removing PPE, firefighters can also assess their physical condition properly and receive necessary medical attention if they start to show signs of distress or exhaustion. This practice aligns with safety protocols intended to ensure that firefighters are fit for duty before continuing operations, ultimately prioritizing their health and safety. Thus, removing PPE during rehabilitation serves both a practical and a safety-focused purpose, ensuring that firefighters can recuperate properly before returning to action.