News
Helmet Light vs. Right-Angle Flashlight vs. Headlamp: What Firefighters Carry and Why
Firefighters argue about lights the way they argue about nozzles, and for the same reason: each type solves a different problem. A helmet light aim...
How to Mount a Flashlight on a Fire Helmet: Brackets, Straps and Clamps
Mounting a flashlight on a fire helmet takes five minutes and a hex key. Mounting it so it stays put through a ceiling pull, clears your face shiel...
Streamlight Vantage Battery Guide: Compatible Batteries, Rechargeable Options and Run Times
Every Streamlight Vantage helmet light runs on CR123A lithium cells, but the three current models do not handle batteries the same way. The Vantage...
Streamlight Vantage vs. Vantage II: Which Helmet Light Should You Buy?
The Streamlight Vantage and Vantage II look like two generations of the same light. They are not. The current Vantage is a two-battery, long-throw ...
Fire Helmet Inspection, Cleaning, and Retirement Under NFPA 1850
A fire helmet has to be cleaned after every structural fire, inspected after every use, given an advanced inspection at least once a year, and reti...
How to Fit a Fire Helmet with an SCBA
A fire helmet fits correctly with an SCBA when it sits level and low on the head, the chin strap holds without pressing on the throat, and the fron...
Bullard Fire Helmet Comparison: UST LowRider, LTX, USRX, PX, and FX
Bullard builds five structural fire helmets. The UST LowRider is the traditional-style option, the LTX and PX are contemporary low-profile helmets,...
Fire Helmet Accessories and Replacement Parts: What Wears Out First
Fire helmet soft goods fail first, usually within two to four years. The ear and neck protector, comfort system, and chin strap absorb the heat, sw...
NFPA 1970 vs. NFPA 1971: What Changed for Fire Helmets
NFPA 1970 replaced NFPA 1971 as the product standard for structural firefighting helmets. The consolidated standard took effect September 18, 2024,...
High-Pressure vs. High-Volume Portable Pumps: Which Does Your Department Need?
A high-pressure portable fire pump is engineered to push water through hose at higher PSI. A high-volume portable fire pump is engineered to move a...
Electric Start vs. Pull Start Portable Fire Pumps: Which Should You Buy?
Electric start and pull start are the two ways a gas-powered portable fire pump's engine gets started. Electric start uses a battery and starter mo...
Skid-Mounted vs. Portable Fire Pumps: What's the Difference?
A portable fire pump ships on a carry-style frame that firefighters can lift and move by hand. A skid-mounted fire pump bolts or straps into a fixe...