Firefighters working near a low head dam should always wear what for safety?

Wearing a life jacket while working near a low head dam is critical for safety due to the inherent dangers posed by such structures. Low head dams create hazardous conditions, including dangerous currents and the risk of drowning. The flows produced by low head dams can create a recirculating effect that can easily trap individuals in the water, making it essential to have personal flotation devices to provide buoyancy and keep responders safe in the event of an emergency.

Having a life jacket ensures that if a firefighter were to slip or fall into the water, they would be better equipped to stay afloat and manage their situation. This is especially important given the unpredictability of water conditions around dams, where rescue efforts might be complicated by currents and turbulence.

Additionally, while helmets, specialized shoes, and gloves are all important pieces of safety gear for firefighters and provide protection in various contexts, they do not specifically address the immediate risks associated with water hazards created by low head dams. Therefore, the most appropriate safety measure in this scenario is to wear a life jacket, making it the best choice for ensuring the safety of firefighters in those conditions.