MM Devices vs. The Work of Fighting Fires

Is it possible to wear an MM jailbird comfortably while fighting fires, without stressing over extra discomfort or the device holding up? The job involves plenty of heavy lifting and crawling.

I've had a Queens Keep on for roughly a year, locked since July 22nd, and have done plenty of activities. Cutting trees, splitting logs, operating machinery, motocross, and working out—just to list some... none of these come near your level of work, and I've had no issues. As for how tough it is, the device is quite sturdy. It's hard to damage it without hurting yourself too.

Oops, I meant saying you could do it without damaging yourself.

I've worn MM devices (QK and WM) and done many different activities while locked; however, none were under the same conditions as firefighting, such as potential immediate danger or the need for rapid movement. Some of my previous work involved crawling through tight spaces, but it never had that same urgency. In a few cases, I remember needing to be careful not to pinch myself in the nether regions while squeezing into narrow spots. It wasn't an issue because the building around me wasn't burning.

> member_e2a3eabcaf wrote: > Is it possible to wear an MM jailbird comfortably while fighting fires, without stressing over extra discomfort or the device holding up? The job involves plenty of heavy lifting and crawling. You might want to check this thread as well, since this topic has come up before. Here is the archived discussion. My view... for what it's worth (FWIW) is that as a Firefighter you can get into a serious situation very quickly... and there is a real risk of injury that could require being taken to A&E (I believe the US term is ER?). At that point, you might find yourself in an potentially embarrassing position? Also, is there ever a chance the device causes a problem where you are unable to do something critical, which then leads to danger for you, a colleague, or a member of the public? When I fly aircraft I never wear my device; I just can't risk any impediment—sudden or otherwise—to movement that could prevent me from taking action and avoiding an incident (does that make sense?!) I have done many manual chores in my cage, including heavy lifting, with no problems. However, the consequences of not being able to do those chores pose no risk to others, only to me displeasing CQ and getting a beating.... So in summary, I would not wear a device when on call or on duty; it is just my view that it is a totally avoidable problem... but it ain't no law...:D

I am leaning toward agreeing with cq's-sub... you could quickly end up in an ER or somewhere where explaining your situation might be awkward. My hubby wears his to work and although he is involved in saving lives, he has no direct contact with patients so wouldn't have issues with it potentially getting in the way of care. Anyway... wearing it while on call is one thing, or anytime you may have a chance to hit the bathroom to remove it before a call. But any time that's not possible might be when you'd prefer not to wear it. Just a thought!

I agree with him as well. This is one job where any interference can be life or death for anyone involved. It would be selfish to even attempt it. Thank You for all the responses.

I don't wear my device while riding my motorcycle for reasons some have mentioned. I just can't take the risk of sudden pain causing a reaction and possible disaster.

You will be fine....as long as it doesn't slow you down...I climb cell towers...bridges...water towers and so on...its life or death every day...although its my own life...might feel different if I had to save others...climb your ladder with it on and off and time it....I can climb 400 ft in the same time with or without. Thanks for your service keeping us safe also!!!

One thing comes to mind.. If you end up at a hazmat scene and need to do a full strip down decontamination or maybe even a drill it could surface in front of your crew. JKD