Next Generation Fire Kits For Clare Firefighters

Monday, 05 December 2011 16:48

Written by Conor Joyce

Clare County Fire and Rescue Service has become the first fire service in Ireland to be equipped with next generation personal protective equipment (PPE).

Mayor of Clare Councillor Pat Hayes today officially presented the Fire Service with 170 sets of the PBI Gold Firekit, which is already widely in use across Britain.

In addition to the fire and flame protection provided, the new equipment will ensure firefighters will be much more visible at night-time, particularly at road-based incidents.

In defining the specification for the new PPE, an extensive range of independent burn tests were used to identify the best possible standard of protection. Fire and Rescue Service personnel in Clare were also involved in trialing the new Kit for comfort and fit across a range of role-related scenarios.

Speaking today, Mayor Hayes said: “The new protective clothing will provide crews with the best protection they have ever had at incidents. The high quality specification underlines Clare County Fire and Rescue Service's commitment to the safety of its frontline crews and will provide greater protection to firefighters on the incident ground."

According to Chief Fire Officer Adrian Kelly: “The choice of PBI gold for the outer shell will provide the highest possible performance which exceeds the current requirements of the standards. PBI claims to be the world's leading inherently flame resistant and thermally stable fibre for outer shell fabric, combining the highest standards of protection comfort and durability."

The PPE kits were acquired at a cost of €120,000 and represent the latest in a number of positive developments for the local Fire Service. Earlier this year, a new €470,000 training centre was completed at Ennis Fire Station, while in 2012 a €254,000 Incident Command Unit for Clare County Fire & Rescue Service will be established. The Fire Service also is due to take receipt of a €300,000 Class B Fire Appliance next year.

Meanwhile, Clare County Fire & Rescue Service is due to launch its 2011 Christmas Fire Safety campaign later this week.