
Country Fire Authority’s District 12 firefighters will receive new structural firefighting helmets, with 151 helmets to be distributed across several brigades.
The helmets are available to members who hold qualifications in the use of breathing apparatus equipment and search and rescue, with a total of more than 5000 CFA volunteers to have received the helmets at the completion of the project.
Members from 16 brigades in District 12 will be the latest volunteers to receive the new helmets. Broadford, Kinglake, Wallan, Wandong and Yea are among the brigades receiving the new equipment.
After being suspended earlier this year due to coronavirus restrictions, delivery of the helmets recommenced in early September.
The new helmets will replace the CFA’s existing structural firefighting helmets and feature an improved design and fit to benefit members.
CFA acting chief officer Garry Cook said the Pacific F15 Premium jet-style structural helmet provided eligible firefighters 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.
District 12 assistant chief fire officer Rob Van Dorsser said it was exciting to begin rolling the helmets out to members in the district’s brigades.
“I want to congratulate members on their commitment to training and for accomplishing and/or maintaining the necessary qualifications and skills. It’s wonderful to be able to reward them with these new modern, innovative and effective helmets,” he said.
The new structural firefighting helmets were 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.