By New state-of-the-art kit for fire services
Firefighters across the Yorkshire and Humber region have revealed new, advanced fire kit following a joint procurement deal.
As part of a tri-service agreement, all firefighters in the Humberside region, South Yorkshire and West Yorkshire will begin wearing new fire tunics and trousers.
The personal protective equipment (PPE) revamp will also feature a pioneering, multi-function rescue jacket to reflect the changing role of the modern firefighter.
The kit is currently being rolled out across the three counties to assist firefighters in best protecting local communities.
All three fire services collaborated in a two-year project, resulting in the final contract being awarded to supplier Ballyclare International.
The new fire kit, which underwent rigorous testing back in June 2020, features specially designed knee and elbow panels to make it easier to move and more comfortable to wear as well as innovative new spacer fabric, to improve breathability for those wearing it.
Humberside Fire and Rescue Service Director of Service Delivery Support, Steve Topham said: “This has been a great opportunity to work with our colleagues from across Yorkshire as part of a regional procurement of new structural PPE from Ballyclare International. It has helped us all in making efficiencies and providing our staff with new PPE that improves their safety and comfort while attending incidents.
“Great care was taken to make sure the new PPE provided a better fit for all our staff and provides better breathability when working in hot environments. Our staff will be receiving their new PPE later in August and supports our ongoing aim to provide safer communities, safer firefighters.”
Fire and rescues services in the UK are now being encouraged to do more collaboratively to drive down the amount spent on essential goods such as frontline equipment and workwear.
