What is one common communication tool used by airport firefighters?

Two-way radios are a common communication tool used by airport firefighters due to their reliability and versatility in fast-paced and dynamic environments. These devices allow for instant, clear communication between team members, which is crucial during emergency situations where every second counts. The use of two-way radios enables firefighters to coordinate their actions, relay important information about the incident, and receive updates from command centers, maintaining situational awareness in potentially chaotic scenarios.

While hand signals can be effective in noisy environments, they rely on visual contact and can be limited in range. Intercom systems typically serve fixed locations, which may not be practical during mobile firefighting operations. Smartphones, while useful for communication, may not be designed to withstand the harsh conditions encountered during firefighting activities, such as exposure to extreme heat, water, and other hazardous materials. Thus, two-way radios are the preferred choice for ensuring effective and continuous communication among airport firefighting teams.