To mark their 50th anniversary, Parisian firefighters are swapping their navy-blue uniforms for a bright orange outfit.
After fifty years of loyal service, the traditional dark blue overalls of the Paris Fire Brigade is replaced by a more comfortable, more ergonomic outfit in a red-orange hue. It’s a colour that certainly doesn’t go unnoticed, but its choice is by no means random.
"It’s not at all about matching our lorries. It’s primarily because three layers of this fabric provide better protection against fire. Four years of in-depth scientific research have resulted in a lighter suit that offers greater breathability and protects against thermal radiation.", explains Commander Gabriel Plus, spokesperson for the Paris Fire Brigade, on BFM Paris.
Laboratory tests have also shown that these colours reduce heat radiation. Whilst the dark suit offers 14 seconds’ protection, the red suit – made from innovative materials and Kevlar – promises to extend this to 20 seconds.
Each outfit costs an average of 700 euros, and the 8,500 Parisian firefighters are due to be gradually kitted out with them from May onwards.
Smart helmets
As well as their new uniform, Paris firefighters will also be issued with a new helmet. The new model is expected to be more comfortable, featuring a large visor for better visibility, and a headlamp will be fitted directly to it.
Firefighters will also be connected via a telecommunications system built into their helmets. By enabling firefighters to communicate with their partner or officer, this new helmet makes coordination more effective during a fire.
These changes coincide with the anniversary of the Paris Fire Brigade. Although the brigade has been in existence for over 200 years, this year it is celebrating 50 years of operating in the inner suburbs. Before 1967, the Paris Fire Brigade only responded to incidents within the city limits of Paris. To mark this anniversary, an exhibition held at Paris City Hall also traces the history and development of the Parisian fire service until 29 April.