There aren't many hotter job sites than those of a firefighter.

"There's really not a whole lot you can do," says Austintown Township Fire Chief Andy Frost.

Combine that with the heat and humidity we've had the last week, and there aren't many more dangerous job sites either.

While firefighters are used to it, there are still preparations that need to be made.

"Going outside for training, try to limit that to lighter types of training, not so much full turnout gear and equipment," says Howland Township Assistant Chief Jim Sapp. "If and when the time arises, you need to be fresh."

"The shift commander will prepare his crew daily by looking at the weather forecast," says Brookfield Township Fire Chief David Masirovits.

Once crews go out to their calls, captains and chiefs are constantly evaluating the situation.

Extreme heat and humidity is a time when mutual aid is especially important.

"I may increase the size of the alarm, summoning more manpower... so I can reduce the workload on my employees," Masirovits said.

And while things like cooling vests can be good ideas, local fire chiefs seem to agree that it's best to let nature run its course.

"Sometimes you can cool the body too quickly," said Masirovits. "Tents, trailers, buses, there are many ways we can cool the body more naturally."

"It basically just depends on how hot it is, and the environment we're in," added Frost.

An environment that poses danger to those who protect us from danger.