What material is commonly used for salvage covers?

The use of rolls of polyethylene film or heavy canvas for salvage covers is due to their properties that make them suitable for protecting belongings from water, dirt, and debris during firefighting operations. Salvage covers are designed to be durable, lightweight, and easy to handle, and both materials fulfill these requirements effectively.

Heavy canvas provides robustness and resistance to tearing, which is essential in high-stress situations where the covers may be moved frequently or subjected to varying weather conditions. On the other hand, polyethylene film is typically waterproof and can create an effective barrier against moisture, making it invaluable for protecting items from water damage during suppression efforts.

This combination of both materials allows firefighters to cover large areas efficiently, ensuring that valuable property remains safeguarded amidst the chaos of a fire scene. The choice of these materials reflects a need for versatility and reliability in emergency scenarios, which is why they are commonly utilized for salvage covers.