The Nomex / PBI Hood

Your PBI fire hood is only as useful as what you know about and how you use it. Like the rest of your protective clothing, the purpose of your hood is not to permit you to go deeper and deeper into the fire area, but to provide increased protection for normal operations and an additional margin of safety if conditions unexpectedly deteriorate.

A 1997 technical study sponsored by the NY City fire Department concluded
At 400 degrees a firefighter without a hood will receive burns (at least 2nd degree) within about 7 seconds after being warned by feeling pain. A firefighter properly wearing a hood will have approximately 30 seconds after feeling pain before a burn occurs. That gives the wearer more than 4 times as much time to reduce exposure or leave the area before burns occur.
In a 2200 degree flashover a firefighter without a hood will be burned in 1.5 seconds. Approximately 72% of the head will be burned and 38% of those will be 3rd degree burns. A firefighter wearing a hood will have approximately 16 seconds before burns occur. Some 2nd degree will occur, but 3rd degree burns are unlikely. The hood also protects the facepiece seal, which can melt and fall away from the face at these extreme temperatures.

Wear your hood wisely. Take care when donning your hood, particularly around the facepiece. Any exposed skin can and will burn. Hoods are designed to be used with the earflaps down and the turnout coat collar up with the hood tucked into the turnout coat. Before entering, make a quick visual check with your partner for exposed skin. Make sure your PASS devices are activated.

Pay close attention to any pain you feel through your hood. It means you are in a VERY hot atmosphere. You need to reduce the heat exposure rapidly or clear the area. Just as the hood provides protection, it also insulates you from the sense of heat. Pay close attention to the fire behavior and conditions you are encountering.