No, you should not dry fire gear in a standard household dryer. Fire gear, also known as turnout gear or bunker gear, is specialized clothing worn by firefighters to protect them from the hazards of their profession. This gear is typically made from advanced materials that provide flame resistance and protection against heat and other dangerous elements.
Drying fire gear in a regular dryer can damage the gear, compromise its protective properties, and pose safety risks to the firefighter. The high heat and tumbling action of a household dryer can lead to shrinkage, degradation of protective coatings, and even melting or weakening of the fire-resistant materials.
To properly care for fire gear, it's important to follow the manufacturer's guidelines and NFPA (National Fire Protection Association) standards for cleaning and maintenance. Typically, fire gear should be cleaned and dried using specialized gear washers and dryers designed specifically for this purpose. These specialized machines are gentler on the gear and use processes that do not compromise its protective capabilities.
If you are a firefighter or responsible for maintaining fire gear, it's essential to adhere to the recommended cleaning and drying procedures to ensure the gear's integrity and the safety of the firefighters who rely on it during their missions.