They're the heroes that battle Australia's worst blazes, and now a university student wants to make our firefighters super.
Monash University's Art Design and Architecture graduate Ken Chen has designed an exoskeleton to help firefighters battle high-rise infernos.
The Advanced Firefighting Apparatus (AFA) suit can be strapped over clothing to enhance the wearer's walking, running and carrying abilities.
Weighing in at 23kg, it can carry loads of up to 91kg and is powered by a lithium battery.
(The Loop)
It's also fitted with a folding axe, water gun and emergency release system for a last-minute discharge. But if it all sounds a bit Marvel, don't worry. This isn't an Iron Man suit.
"Unlike the Iron Man suit, AFA is more like a frame or assistance fire gear," Chen told AAP.
"(But) I am a big fan of sci-fi movies, so maybe some inspiration or design language comes from them."
Rather than Tony Stark, Chen said the suit's aesthetic was inspired by US Army "future soldier" military gear.
But he wanted to apply that idea to firefighting gear after reading about a destructive 2010 blaze that tore through a Shanghai skyscraper, killing 58.
"I was kind of shocked about this," Chen said.
The new design "isn't an Iron Man suit." (AAP)
"In a high-rise fire ground, the stair is the only viable means of (access). Therefore, to increase firefighters' mobility will save time and save life."
While he hasn't been approached by any developers, Chen is hopeful the budgetary challenges will not deter potential investors from considering the suit.
In the meantime, the 25-year-old industrial designer is looking for work in Melbourne.
