Which statement about structural fire fighting protective coats is accurate?

The statement regarding structural firefighting protective coats emphasizes the importance of wearing the outer shell, moisture barrier, and thermal barrier together to ensure the safety and effectiveness of the firefighter's gear. Each component has a specific role: the outer shell protects against physical hazards and has some resistance to flames; the moisture barrier prevents water and other liquids from penetrating, keeping the firefighter dry; and the thermal barrier provides insulation to protect against heat.

Wearing all three layers together is crucial because they are designed to work in conjunction to provide optimal protection against the extreme conditions encountered while fighting fires. If any layer is missing, the firefighter's safety may be compromised, as they could be exposed to heat, moisture, or hazardous materials.

In contrast, the other statements suggest scenarios that would undermine safety. Removing the moisture barrier during operations would expose the wearer to water and potentially harmful agents, while considering the outer shell optional or relying solely on the thermal barrier fails to provide comprehensive protection in the varied and dangerous environments firefighters encounter. Thus, understanding the necessity of wearing the complete protective ensemble is vital in ensuring firefighter safety.