Are you FIT for DUTY?

• Fire suppression provides a sudden and sustained cardiovascular challenge that requires intermittent bursts of muscular strength and endurance (mixed static-dynamic work).
• Bulky protective gear, SCBA, and extreme environmental conditions intensify the physiological demands.
• An estimated 55% of line-of-duty disabilities result from cardio vascular related events.
• More than half of line-of-duty deaths can be linked to problems related to health, fitness and wellness.
• A significant portion of line-of-duty disabilities and deaths are preventable (cardiometabolic deconditioning).

VO2 REQUIREMENTS of FIREFIGHTING

• VO2 max determines one’s physical work capacity especially in environmentally challenging environments.
• The energy cost associated with wearing turnout gear can substantially increase the metabolic demand associated with fire suppression activities.
• Depending upon fitness level, fire suppression activities can represent 55 – 95% of a firefighter’s VO2 max.

Suggested Firefighter VO2 Max Levels

Courtesy of Robert Karwasky of Los Angeles County Fire Department

Here is a quick reference guide using a 1.5-mile run that can give you an idea of your VO2 max.