ACT Fire & Rescue (ACTF&R) firefighters will have the safest protective clothing available following upgrades to be delivered by the ACT Government.
Minister for Police and Emergency Services Mick Gentlemen said that we put safety first, especially the safety of firefighters who must sometimes put themselves in risky situations to protect our community. That is why we will provide $2.3 million to roll out next generation structural firefighting protective clothing for all ACTF&R firefighters. Minister Gentleman added that this is in addition to the delivery of new structural firefighting helmets previously announced in the 2018-19 Budget. The new protective clothing and helmets will help ensure Canberra’s firefighters are well protected from injury while they carry out their incredibly important and sometimes dangerous work.

Minister Gentleman explained that the ACT Emergency Services Agency will conduct significant due diligence when sourcing the new equipment to ensure it is the best quality, style, type and suitability for our firefighters. This will include research focusing on ergonomic design to suit a variety of body types, acknowledging the increasing diversity of our firefighters. The Minister also explained that the personal protective clothing worn by ACTF&R firefighters includes an outer tunic, over pants and a helmet, all of which are essential for keeping firefighters safe during firefighting and rescue operations.

The new equipment will be rolled out over the next two financial years.