One hundred and fifty eight local volunteer firefighters from District 4 and 5 will be the first in Victoria to get their hands on new structural firefighting helmets.
The helmets are available to members who hold qualifications in the use of Breathing Apparatus equipment and Search and Rescue, with over 5,500 CFA volunteers to receive the helmets by mid-2020.
Members from Portland, Heywood, Casterton, Allansford, Coleraine, Hamilton, Koroit, Mortlake, Penshurst, Port Fairy and Warrnambool Fire Brigades will be among the first in the state to receive the helmets and try them on for size.
The new helmets will replace the CFA’s existing structural firefighting helmets and feature an improved design and fit to benefit members.
CFA Chief Officer Steve Warrington said the Pacific F15 Premium jet-style structural helmet has been designed to provide members with a range of new features.
“This helmet has specific benefits for internal structure firefighting attack and we’re excited to be able to provide it to eligible volunteer firefighters,” he said.
The helmet includes a one-touch visor, a full-coverage internal face shield, integrated helmet torch, comfort harness and liner, and flame-resistant multi-layer neck flaps.
It also has a reinforced composite shell and an advanced polymer chassis.
“These helmets are modern, innovative and effective, and the CFA is excited to begin rolling them out to its members across Victoria,” Mr Warrington said.
The helmets were developed through field trials and input from volunteer members across Victoria and funded as part of the State Government’s $60 million Fire Services Statement.
While the roll-out is underway all existing helmets used by CFA volunteers remain fit for purpose and compliant with relevant Australian Standards.
