High temperatures dangerous for firefighters

WILMINGTON — On hot days like this, hot jobs can sometimes be dangerous. Firefighters may have the toughest job around on days like this, packing on heavy gear to protect themselves in a fire.

The protective clothing that saves their life can become a danger in itself.

Officials say when the temperature is near 100 degrees the temperature inside a firefighter’s suit can reach 120 degrees.

Wilmington Fire Department Capt. Tim Smith said, “With all this gear Will has on right now, you add ten degrees from the outside temp, then when he starts working you add another ten degrees to that and that’s how hot is it inside this gear.”