Watch: Clearwater Firefighters Play Dodge Ball In Full Fire Gear

CLEARWATER, FL -- What's harder than fighting fires while wearing 70 pounds of firefighting gear?

Clearwater Fire & Rescue's latest recruit class might say it's playing dodge ball while wearing 70 pounds of firefighting gear.

On Friday, April 6, the 12 recruits, who began their 10-week training schedule last week, has the challenge of playing a game of dodge ball in full gear including bunker pants, boots, turnout coat, bailout gear, gloves, helmet, hood, mask and air pack.

"This allows our new recruits to become more comfortable in their full gear and air pack," said Assistant Chief Andrew Hawkins, who leads the agency's training section. "The purpose of this drill is for the recruits to understand the amount of air they consume while their heart rate is elevated and how to control their heart rate and air consumption at the same time."

While a bit unorthodox, Hawkins said a game of dodge ball while wearing fire gear is a great way for firefighters to learn to control their breathing.

"For years, we have all learned these skills by raising our heart rate through physical activity and then crawling through a smoke-filled training tower for the same purpose of air consumption and controlling our breathing," Hawkins said. "This is a more unique way to teach the same theories."

The game took place at Long Center, 1501 N. Belcher Road.

Video via Clearwater Fire