(Tankers, FCV’s & Slip On’s etc)
An integral part of this project is the fitting of the approved torch holder base to any wildfire helmets not currently fitted. The aim is to ensure ALL wildfire helmets have a base fitted that would allow any vehicle caches to be used as shared resource by any personnel on the fire ground, in much the same way as radio’s and hoses are.
Most Wildfire helmets issued after 2007 have a factory fitted torch holder base. In order to determine the best way to retrofit these bases, CFA need to establish the quantity and locations of helmets that require retrofitting.
A survey will be distributed to every brigade next week, which requests brigades identify how many of their wildfire helmets require a torch base to be fitted, and the brigades preference on how they would like them fitted. (This project does not extend to Structural helmets)
The options being explored for fitting range from;
- Brigade Self Fit: Bases would be sent to the brigade along with a drilling mould that fits over the wildfire helmet and allows brigades to easily fit them themselves. The advantage of this method is helmets can be done over time and don’t require members to come in on a specific day or send off their helmets for a period of time.
- Brigade Fitted by Others: A contractor might be able to be employed to visit brigades on a specific date and time to fit helmets. This would require all members’ helmets to be in attendance at the time of fitting.
- District: Helmets would be returned to District where arrangements would be made for the torch bases to be fitted, and then returned to the Brigade. (Obvious downside of this approach would be members would be without a helmet for a period of time.)
The specific arrangements for each option will not be made until after the survey period ends, and brigades views can be ascertained. Solutions will depend on the numbers of brigades indicating their preference for each of the options, which will dictate what kind of logistical arrangements would need to be put in place. CFA is also investigating the option of making fittings available at large District events (such as pre-season updates & meetings) which might possibly allow members to bring their helmets to a pre-season briefing, and have them fitted whilst they are in the meeting.
The surveys can be returned by emailing a copy to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it., or fax (03) 9763 4825. Alternatively, the survey can also be completed verbally by calling the FIRS reporting line on 1800 628 844, where an operator will take down your responses over the phone.
Brigades are urged to provide a response ASAP so that arrangements can start to be made prior to this year’s Fire Season.
A copy of the survey is provided below, if your brigade does not wish to wait for the paper copy to arrive in the mail. It is requested that only one response per brigade only, so please ensure the response is coordinated with the member responsible for your brigades PPC maintenance. (3rd Lieutenant etc).
