Field Testing Multi-Parametric Wearable Technologies for Wildfire Firefighting Applications
In response to the escalating complexity and frequency of wildland fires, this study investigates the feasibility of using wearable devices for real-time monitoring of cardiac, respiratory, physical, and environmental parameters during live wildfire suppression tasks. Data were collected from twelve...
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| Main Authors: | , , , , , |
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| Format: | Article |
| Language: | English |
| Published: |
MDPI AG
2025-05-01
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| Series: | Sensors |
| Subjects: | |
| Online Access: | https://www.mdpi.com/1424-8220/25/10/3066 |
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| Summary: | In response to the escalating complexity and frequency of wildland fires, this study investigates the feasibility of using wearable devices for real-time monitoring of cardiac, respiratory, physical, and environmental parameters during live wildfire suppression tasks. Data were collected from twelve male firefighters (FFs) from the Italian National Fire Corp during a simulated protocol, including rest, running, and active fire suppression phases. Physiological and physical metrics such as heart rate (HR), heart rate variability (HRV), respiratory frequency (f<sub>R</sub>) and physical activity levels were extracted using chest straps. The protocol designed to mimic real-world firefighting scenarios revealed significant cardiovascular and respiratory strain, with <i>HR</i> often exceeding 85% of age-predicted maxima and sustained elevations in high-stress roles. Recovery phases highlighted variability in physiological responses, with reduced HRV indicating heightened autonomic stress. Additionally, physical activity analysis showed task-dependent intensity variations, with debris management roles exhibiting consistently high exertion levels. These findings demonstrate the relevance of wearable technology for real-time monitoring, providing an accurate analysis of key metrics to offer a comprehensive overview of work-rest cycles, informing role-specific training and operational strategies. |
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| ISSN: | 1424-8220 |