Tackling heat stress

YELLINGBO fire brigade is leading the way in reducing injuries and illnesses among members through a specialist support vehicle.
The unit helps firefighters recover from their strenuous work and prevent heat-related illnesses when they respond to emergencies.
Yellingbo brigade captain Paul Spinks said while the insulated personal protective clothing gives excellent protection from radiant heat during a fire, it can also lead to people overheating and suffering dehydration.
The protective clothing stops the body expelling excess heat, causing the body’s core temperature to rise.
“Whether we’re attending to a house fire or bushfire, we noticed the gear that is designed to protect us can also increase the risk of heat stress,” he said.
“This rehab unit can help firefighters at almost any type of incident reduce the chances of suffering a heat-related episode.”
The unit carries cooling chairs that let firefighters rapidly cool down by submerging their forearms in water, which brings their core temperature down.
Yellingbo’s support vehicle also carries marquees to protect against the elements, a large quantity of bottled water and electrolyte to mix with the water to help hydrate firefighters, hot and cold washing facilities, fans, small first-aid kits and ration packs.
It also has a light tower, plenty of perimeter lighting and the capacity to carry two breathing apparatus sets and storage for up to eight cylinders.
The vehicle is expected to be used in the eastern suburbs and the Yarra Valley.
The CFA hopes the unit will provide a prototype for other volunteer brigades to adopt.