By Tory Henderson
Fire Management Today
WASHINGTON, D.C. — Early Physical Fitness Studies
As early as 1965, the Missoula Equipment Development Center-in cooperation with the University of Montana Human Performance Laboratory-began studying the energy, cardiovascular, and thermal demands of wildland firefighters. These early experiments set the stage for today’s stringent health screening standards and the realization that firefighter performance is dependent on proper nutrition and adequate rest.
Work Capacity Tests
Field studies of fitness requirements for firefighters initiated the concept and development of the work capacity test. The first work capacity test, known as the Step Test (measuring heart rate following a 5-minute stair step-like test), estimated the minimum aerobic fitness standard needed for wildland firefighting duties. The Step Test remained the standard from 1975 through 1998 and was adopted and implemented throughout all wildland fire agencies and supported by the National Wildfire Coordinating Group (NWCG).
In 1998, the NWCG adopted new work capacity testing to replace the standardized step test. Each test measures an individual’s ability to meet the minimum standard of fitness required to perform in his or her particular work. Three tests evaluate various degrees of performance for firefighting duties:
1) Pack Test, for difficult activity, is measured by a 3-mile hike, with a 45-pound pack, completed in 45 minutes;
2) Field Test, for moderate activity, is measured by a 2-mile hike, with a 25-pound pack, completed in 30 minutes; and,
3) Walk Test, for light activity, is measured by a 1-mile hike, with no pack, completed in 16 minutes.
The Pack Test and Field Test incorporate elements of muscular fitness while maintaining a set aerobic fitness standard, while the Walk Test (light) determined a lower level of fitness required for less demanding firefighting positions, such as office work with some field visits.
The work capacity tests, accompanied by a physician health screening, identifies conditions that may pose a threat to an individual prior to performing his or her job. Any potential health issues identified are evaluated to determine whether the individual is capable to perform the tasks necessary for the job.
Work, Rest, and Diet
Fatigue management and adequate nutrition are important components of the health, welfare, and performance of the firefighter. When following the work-rest guidelines (1 hour of rest for every 2 hours worked), firefighters should obtain proper rest, manage fatigue, and meet dietary needs to maintain peak performance throughout each day.
Research shows that firefighters who manage fatigue while on assignment report fewer illnesses. MTDC and NWCG continue to research and evaluate the effectiveness of the work-rest guidelines and dietary needs of firefighters.
In the 1950s, meals for firefighters consisted of C-rations or Meals Ready-to-Eat (MREs). Although MREs are still around today (mainly used for supplementary food while on the fireline), most fire camps provide firefighters with catered meals. National Mobile Food Services Contract caterers are required to meet predetermined nutritional and caloric requirements of 5,800 kilocalories per day for each firefighter.
Analysis has shown that vitamin and mineral supplements can also assist in managing fatigue. However, the best way to meet the increased energy and nutrient demands of wildland firefighting is with a balanced diet based on a variety of foods. Dietary needs of firefighters include carbohydrates and protein-rich foods, nine or more servings of fruits and vegetables, and several servings of whole grains daily.
As firefighter dietary needs change, you can expect changes to the National Mobile Food Services food requirements.
Water
Hydration is an important element for the firefighter and continues to be evaluated as to the best combination of water and carbohydrate/ electrolyte beverages to avoid fluid loss, fatigue, and heat stress.
Future studies will evaluate the relationships among diet, fitness, and immune function. Look for the development of a nutritional guidance program and the potential introduction of a ration component to meet micronutrient needs.
Tory Henderson is the fire equipment specialist who oversees the equipment and chemical program for the Forest Service, Washington Office, National Interagency Fire Center (NIFC) located in Boise, ID. Prior to that, she served as the Forest Service Administrative Manager at NIFC and was involved with incident operations and military, interagency, and international fire programs.
The Missoula Technology and Development Center (MTDC) is one of four detached units of the Engineering Staff in Washington, DC, and serves Forest Service regions and cooperating Federal and State agencies. MTDC works in cooperation with universities, private firms, and research groups to solve firefighter safety, health, and welfare problems; to advance existing technology; and to build and test prototype firefighting equipment for safety standards.