No, you should not put turnout gear in the dryer. Turnout gear, also known as firefighting bunker gear or protective firefighting clothing, is specially designed to provide firefighters with protection from heat, flames, and other hazards encountered during their duties.
Turnout gear is typically made of multiple layers of advanced materials, including a moisture barrier, thermal liner, and outer shell. These materials are often treated with special coatings and finishes to enhance their protective properties. Exposing turnout gear to high heat in a dryer can be extremely detrimental and compromise its effectiveness, potentially putting firefighters at risk.
Here are some reasons why you should avoid putting turnout gear in the dryer:
Damage to protective properties: The high heat in a dryer can damage the specialized materials used in turnout gear, such as the moisture barrier and thermal liner. This damage can reduce the gear's ability to protect against heat, flames, and other hazardous materials.
Shrinkage and deformation: Turnout gear can shrink or lose its shape when exposed to high heat, affecting its fit and overall effectiveness.
Melting or deformation of reflective materials: Turnout gear often includes reflective trim and labels for visibility. The high heat in a dryer can cause these materials to melt, compromising visibility during firefighting operations.
Degradation of stitching and seams: The heat in a dryer can weaken or damage the stitching and seams, potentially leading to tears or openings in the gear that could expose firefighters to hazards.
To properly care for turnout gear:
Follow manufacturer guidelines: Always follow the care and maintenance instructions provided by the manufacturer of the turnout gear. These guidelines are designed to ensure the gear remains effective and safe.
Clean according to NFPA 1851 standards: Turnout gear should be cleaned and decontaminated according to the guidelines set by the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) in the NFPA 1851 Standard on Selection, Care, and Maintenance of Protective Ensembles for Structural Fire Fighting and Proximity Fire Fighting.
Hand wash or use a specialized cleaning service: Generally, turnout gear should be hand washed using a mild detergent and water. Some fire departments have access to specialized cleaning services that are equipped to properly clean and maintain firefighting gear.
Air dry: After cleaning, allow the turnout gear to air dry in a well-ventilated area. Avoid direct exposure to sunlight or high heat sources.
Taking proper care of turnout gear is essential to ensure it remains effective in protecting firefighters during their critical work. If there are any concerns about the gear's condition, it should be inspected and tested by a certified professional before being returned to service.