The Most Important Flashlight Features for Firefighters

Adaptability and a quick response to situations are prerequisites for firefighters. The calls they’re sent on in a day can range from search and rescue, to putting out fires, to wellness checks. To help them stay safe and get the job done, they have several specialized tools and equipment that they rely on. One of the most vital tools in this arsenal is a dependable flashlight. Here are some of the most important features to look for when choosing a flashlight to add to a firefighter’s kit. 

High IP Rating

The conditions firefighters face are often less than ideal, so it’s important to have a flashlight that will hold up no matter what. A flashlight’s IP rating is a great way to determine if it is durable enough to stand up against the tough work firefighters deal with daily. Flashlights with an IP68 rating are guaranteed to protect internal components from dust, dirt, and water – things firefighters are guaranteed to encounter often. This makes them a valuable and reliable tool on calls where smoke, water, and debris might make a flashlight with a lower IP rating unusable.

Reinforced Strike Bezel

A reinforced strike bezel can be used to break glass, and so flashlights with a strike bezel are invaluable tools in emergency situations. A strike bezel is a common feature of tactical flashlights, which makes them an excellent choice for firefighters who need a quick and efficient striking tool. Be sure to choose a flashlight made from high-quality materials that won’t break should you need to strike an object.

Durable Battery

Depending on the day, a firefighter might be facing extreme cold and extreme heat all within a matter of hours. A battery designed to withstand extreme temperatures will handle these changes fluidly and provide consistent power. Whether you’re participating in a search and rescue operation in the snow or evacuating a building on fire, a heat-resistant flashlight will allow you to see and be seen in less-than-ideal conditions.

Holster Friendly

Many flashlights come equipped with a clip that allows the flashlight to be clipped to a belt or pocket for easy access. When wearing full kit, however, firefighters need a way to keep their flashlight within reach and easily operable while still leaving their hands free. Flashlights that can be attached to a shoulder holster or clamped to the side of a helmet provide light exactly where users need it without having to be operated in hand. By choosing a flashlight that easily adjusts to different carry styles, firefighters can be ready to respond to any situation.

Glove Friendly Operation

Big and bulky gloves can make it hard for firefighters to control small dials and sensitive switches. Large, glove-friendly switches allow for quick lighting adjustments on the go. Tactical flashlights are built with immediate lighting needs in mind and are one of the best options for firefighters who need lighting quickly and don’t have the time or dexterity for fine adjustments. By quickly tapping a switch or rotating a dial, firefighters can stay on the move when time is of the essence.

A Range of Lighting Options

Every call firefighters respond to is different, which makes a range of brightness options important to their safety and success when they arrive on the scene. For rescue operations, a long-reaching, bright beam can help illuminate the area and cut down search times. For smoky interiors, the ability to cycle down to a lower brightness setting to cut through the haze helps firefighters find safe paths through debris. An emergency strobe function is also an important lighting option to consider. Should communication become difficult, a strobe can quickly alert team members to a firefighter in distress and ensure no one is left behind.

Firefighting is a dangerous job. Stay safe by choosing a flashlight that will help you overcome any lighting challenges you may encounter