Special Protective Clothing Requiring Personal Flotation Devices

Which of the following types of special protective clothing requires a personal flotation device?

A. Ice rescue
B. Technical rescue
C. Proximity fire fighting
D. Hazardous materials

Final answer:

Answer:

Ice rescue operations require personal flotation devices due to the risks posed by cold and unstable water conditions. Protective clothing for technical rescue, proximity fire fighting, and hazardous materials do not include personal flotation devices as part of their required gear.

Explanation:

The type of special protective clothing that requires a personal flotation device is Ice rescue gear. This is because ice rescue operations are conducted in cold and often unstable water environments, where there is a substantial risk of drowning should an individual fall into the water. To ensure the safety of rescuers, personal flotation devices are essential for maintaining buoyancy and preventing hypothermia in cold water.

In comparison, technical rescue may involve a variety of situations including urban search and rescue, confined space rescue, and high-angle rescue, where flotation devices are not usually needed. Proximity fire fighting requires protective clothing that can withstand high temperatures and may include a layer of fire-resistant material, but not flotation devices. Those engaged in hazardous material (hazmat) operations wear suits designed to protect against chemical, biological, radiological, and nuclear substances, which also do not typically require flotation devices.