New helmets for CFA brigades in Melbourne’s south east

It’s hats off – or in this case hats on – to CFA members in Melbourne’s southeast who will be the first in the state to sport new feature-laden helmets. Check them out here.

Members at Edithvale's CFA station, Michael, Dan, Chloe, Andy and Mark, try the new Pacific F15 Premium jet-style helmets on for size. Source: Supplied

Firefighters in the southeastern suburbs will be the first in Victoria to sport new state-of-the-art helmets.

CFA Chief Officer Steve Warrington said the new helmets, called the Pacific F15 Premium jet-style, had 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.

Kits at Edithvale's CFA station ready to go, complete with new Pacific F15 Premium jet-style helmets. Source: Supplied

The helmets are available to members who hold qualifications in the use of breathing apparatus equipment and search and rescue, with over 5000 CFA volunteers to receive the helmets by mid-2020.

Edithvale CFA Captain Graham Fountain said the helmets had a one-touch visor, a full-coverage internal face shield, integrated helmet torch, comfort harness and liner, and flame-resistant multi-layer neck flaps.

The brigade now was looking forward to the delivery of a new tanker in the coming months to enhance its firefighting fleet and capabilities.

In the wake of their work at the Gippsland bushfires, Mr Fountain said they were moved by the recognition they had received.

“While we don’t look for accolades we are overwhelmed with the generous support and appreciation the brigade is receiving from the community, so thank you,” he said.

The new Pacific F15 Premium jet-style CFA captain's helmet which is now being rolled out across the state, with brigades in the south east getting them first. Source: Supplied

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.

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Members of eligible District 8 brigades will be among the first in the state to receive the helmets after distribution from Pakenham, Narre Warren, Dandenong, Rosebud and Moorooduc.

The new structural firefighting helmets were funded as part of the State Government’s $60 million Fire Services Statement.

While the rollout is underway all existing helmets used by CFA volunteers remain fit for purpose and compliant with relevant Australian Standards.