There's no shame in rehab. These images illustrate the power & glory of taking necessary breaks on scene.
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PHOTO MIKE COPPOLA
Don't underestimate the value of supplemental oxygen in rehab. This is where multiple flowmeter setups prove beneficial.
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PHOTO MIKE COPPOLA
Misting fans strategically placed in the rehab sector will significantly cool the ambient temperature.
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(left) PHOTO CRAIG JACKSON
Logging entry and exit times along with fluid intake, vital signs and medical history will allow you to track rehab activity and identify trends in medical problems at varying climate conditions.
(right) PHOTO MIKE COPPOLA
Rehab is a balance of good medical evaluation, rehydration and body-temperature cooling. |
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PHOTO GERT ZOUTENDIJKK
Placing a designated rehab sector near the SCBA changing area helps personnel recover from the effects of sustained field operation in turnout gear. |
PHOTO A.J. HEIGHTMAN
A stepladder and tarps can shield your rehab sector from cold winds. Add four to six quartz lights for warmth, and you'll create a comfortable rest area. |
 
PHOTOS A.J. HEIGHTMAN
Two inexpensive containers full of clean towels can be deployed quickly at the scene. Fill the "cooling towel" container with cool water, and then wrap a wet towel around firefighters' head/necks when they sit down in rehab. The cool water will lower the body's temperature significantly. Dry towels allow personnel to dry off before going back to action. |
PHOTO A.J. HEIGHTMAN
Establish rehab next to or in conjunction with SCBA support areas for greater efficiency. |
PHOTO A.J. HEIGHTMAN
This rehab vehicle features rollout water fountains, a misting system and a canopy. |
PHOTO A.J. HEIGHTMAN
If abnormal vital signs or other conditions turn a firefighter into a patient, move them to an ambulance or treatment area. |
