RAPID DRESS 

1.                  The object of this event is to “suit up” as quickly and correctly as possible.  If, for any reason, the judges feel the firefighter is not properly attired, he may be penalized by adding two (2) seconds for each infraction to his time. 

2.                  This is an INDIVIDUAL event.  It is to be done with no trick equipment.  The equipment and gear used must be the type normally used by fire suppression personnel.  The participant is to use his own protective clothing. 

3.                  The event starts with the firefighter in street clothes or work uniform.  If the firefighter has on lace up shoes, they must be tied (loosely, if he chooses). 

4.                  Night boots, bunker pants, and suspenders must be used. 

5.                  The bunker coat must have at least four snaps secured and/or zipper.  Inner snaps do not have to be snapped.  Liners must be used.  The front snap on the bunker pants must be fastened. 

6.                  The breathing apparatus is to be in its case, turned off, straps extended, and the case latched.  Any type of recognized fire department 30- minute self-contained breathing apparatus may be used.  The firefighter may use any method to don the breathing apparatus.  Upon completion of the event, the firefighter’s breathing apparatus must be in full operation.  This means: air on, breathing tube secured to the regulator, waist belt buckled, if equipped, and the face piece (mask) properly in place and tight. 

7.                  The helmet strap must be under the breathing tube and drawn tight to assure it would stay on in actual fire conditions. 

8.                  NFPA – approved gloves are also considered part of a firefighter’s full protective clothing and are to be on at the completion of the event.  No welder’s gloves. 

9.                  The firefighter may lay out his gear in any manor he chooses.  No braces, brackets, hangers, tape, wire, or outside help may be used.  Straps cannot be pre-snapped on the coat or pants.  The firefighter will stand beside his gear.  The stopwatch will start immediately when the firefighter “makes his move” for the gear. 

10.              When the participant has completed the quick dress, he/she is to hold his/her hands above the head to signal his/her completion.  Hands are to remain in this position while the judges check for irregularities and for compliance with the rules.  If, at this point, the judges decide the firefighter is not properly dressed or not able to abide by the rules of this event, he/she may be disqualified.  For minor infractions, such as coat snaps or helmet strap, a two (2) second penalty will be added to his time for each infraction.