BA covers

[Sleuth]

I just picked up the book "Rescue", a Channel four book about the history of rescue in the UK. In some of the pictures from the 80's, the FF have some kind of cover over their BA bottles. Anyone know why?

[Tooanfrom]

Covers were lightweight nylon type reflective items.Stenciled on it were Station and Division numbers
Possible reasons --firefighters coats were of black Melton cloth and the covers would show up in headlights etc. Fire helmets were painted yellow, from the original black issue- (my old "Battle Bowler" is hanging up on the wall) and to finish off the ensemble-a fetching pair of yellow water proof leggings--which melted if you got too close to the flames, again the original issue leggings were black.Also the covers would protect the cylinders from scratches and dings.
As you can see the entire kit of a London Firefighter was in black prior to the 80's-if I knew how to send it I have a photo of yours truly kitted entirely in black-the only exception were the Senior Officers who had White helmets.At least you could see the buggers!

Nomex was yet to arrive as were visor's--I don't know if we were tougher then, or not, but why does the word "expendable" spring to mind?

[Sleuth]

Thanks. The book has some interesting insights, as well as period pictures of various FF gear in the UK. I just wondered - our SCBA (same thing as your BA) are yellow, as are our turnouts.
We do have one local department that went with black turnout gear (with reflective striping). Even here in the mountains of Arizona, it gets hot in the summer. Black turnouts on a MVA extrication in the summer sun? Not for me.

BTW, I was on North Island back in 1993, before I got into Fire Fighting - I was in Law Enforcement. Really enjoyed NZ, in spite of getting hurt there. Some of your hospitals were,...ah,... dated. Nice ambulance, but with only one person on board. I would have been out of luck if I needed advanced care.

[Tooanfrom]

Slueth-your comment on the hospital situation--very diplomatic! But very true. A person who is a veritable mine of info is Steve Dudeney,a serving "White Hat" in the Brigade, he subscribes to this forum-- and he has a complete archive of L.F.B photo's(Ancient and Modern) and has helped me no end.