What is true when wearing your fire helmet?

• A. Chin strap must be fastened
• B. Helmet should be tilted back
• C. Face shield must be up
• D. Chin strap is optional

Answer: (A)

When wearing a fire helmet, keeping it securely in place is essential because its protection only works if the helmet stays on your head during all movement and tasks. The chin strap must be fastened so the helmet doesn’t shift, slide, or come off if you bend, crawl, reach for tools, or encounter a jolt from a hose stream or a fall. A loose helmet can expose vulnerable areas and create opportunities for heat, embers, or debris to reach the head or face. Tilting the helmet back removes protection from the forehead and eyes, and can allow debris to reach the face, while the face shield should be positioned to provide the needed facial protection for the task at hand. The chin strap being optional is not acceptable safety practice—always fasten it to keep the helmet securely in place.