Volunteers with the Country Fire Authority (CFA) are to receive new, locally made uniforms that provide better protection from the heat.
Announcing the new wildfire personal protective clothing (PPC), the Minister for Emergency Services, Jaclyn Symes said the uniforms were specifically tailored for both men and women to ensure a safe and comfortable fit for all volunteers.
“Providing an improved level of protection from radiant heat and heat-related illness, the new gear will feature CFA’s iconic yellow but will be made of lighter weight materials with better design for function and comfort,” Ms Symes said.
“The jackets will feature a new epaulette holder on the chest area, reinforced elbow patches, front-top and lower pockets on both sides and radio pockets along the side seam,” she said.
“The protective trousers incorporate elastic back waistbands with large belt loops, two back pockets and hip pockets.”
Ms Symes said the garments had an inherent fire-retardant performance to provide benefits to firefighters including comfort, ease of movement and breathability.
She said the PPC would be provided to eligible members in addition to existing wildfire PPC, meaning recipients could continue to use their current wildfire PPC as well as the new garments.
“With the staggered rollout expected to begin in the coming months, the design of the PPC was informed by consultation with volunteers providing input on what they wanted to see in their new uniforms,” the Minister said.
“CFA members shaped this new clothing, which means it’s custom made to fit their needs and be comfortable in difficult conditions – all while being locally made,” she said.
