Purchasing the ideal firefighter radio strap is essential. Not all materials hold up; you’ll need something built to last. The challenge is learning the difference between sturdy and resilient materials.
The latter are designed for firefighting. While materials like leather might be sufficient for cold weather exposure, they are not the best for firefighter gear. Learning the critical differences between materials will set you up for success as you shop for the best options.
From there, you can move on to other critical points of purchase, like price and value. These factors, however, must come secondary to your overall goals in purchasing the right radio strap. Safety is the top priority, and this will mean spending more on the right equipment. To help you determine the best radio straps for your firefighting duties, consider the following buying guide.
Consider only the best weatherproof materials.
While your department may stay updated on the latest radio strap technology, this is not necessarily the case; you may think that you already have the right strap, but your knowledge of what you need may be limited. For instance, leather straps were once the go-to, but now, it’s military-grade nylon. If your department is not aware of changes, you may accidentally purchase a strap that will not serve you as well.
Shop brands with radio straps that meet industry standards.
You should review national firefighting organization reports to determine the industry standards for gear and related equipment. Make sure to only shop brands that meet these industry standards; otherwise, you’ll end up with radio straps that fail to protect you, your radio, and others at the level you expect.
Choose customizations that best serve you as a firefighter.
Many companies selling firefighter radio straps offer customizations. You want to make sure you’re choosing customizations that best serve your role as a firefighter. For example, if one company offers custom embroidery in a color you like, make sure that they also provide straps made from washable materials so that you can keep your strap in good condition and sterilize it properly.
Choose value over savings.
Because your role as a firefighter is to save lives, you want to ensure your strap is as protective as possible. The best way to shop for a strap is to choose one that will protect you and those around you. Look for straps that will safeguard your radio no matter the conditions. The radio straps prioritizing safety will cost more than alternatives that do not. View purchasing a radio strap as a piece of safety equipment and, therefore, a necessary investment.
Find the options that will best serve you as a firefighter.
To choose the best radio straps, get your priorities sorted. Choose only the straps with the best materials, that meet industry standards, and that better serve your role as a firefighter; these points are integral to your purchasing decision. Ultimately, see your radio strap as an investment that will best serve you in your career as a firefighter.
