Policies on uniform shorts

[EUitts]

My department is currently researching information on policies and procedures regarding the wearing of uniform shorts while on duty. I am not looking for personal opinions or to open the debate over the pros and cons of shorts, but rather assistance in locating copies of actual policies and procedures from departments that allow members to wear uniform shorts. Any information and help would be greatly apreciated.

FF Eric Uitts
Hooksett, NH Fire-Rescue
[email protected]

[ThNozzleman]

We can wear them (EMS style) if the temp is over 80 degrees (F) or when exercising. Some of us didn't like them at first, but I think it's just the "new" of it that people thought was odd. After wearing them for a few shifts, I totally love them. I see nothing wrong with their looks, but I'm sure you'll find a few different opinions on them here.

[MIKEYLIKESIT]

Our Intergovernmental Risk Management Association (AKA insurance carrier) has come out against allowing firefighters the option of wearing shorts. I think its short-sighted on their part, but my Chief isn't going to go against them.

[ThNozzleman]

Did they state specific reasons for their position?

[MIKEYLIKESIT]

Something along the lines that exposed legs = more claims. I did not see the opinion letter but that was the jist of it. I dont understand their reasoning if you are wearing bunker pants. They did not like shorts ANYTIME.

[ThNozzleman]

I see. The shorts we wear come to the knee or just below it on most our guys. This is about the area that the top of my boots hit, anyway. I can see their point, though. However, in my experience, when crawling on a hot floor the pants I was wearing really made little difference. I seldom put my knees down, anyway. Feeling boots hit against my bare legs took some getting used to, though. The only slack I get is my legs are too white. Everybody's a critic.

[Weruj1]

we do not allow them .......as an on duty type uniform ,........obviously if you are coming form home then you may be in shorts ...... I am not aware of any local depts that have a policy

[GeorgeWendtCFI]

Not for nuthin' but...

Shouldn't the policy address the problem of that segment of the fire service who has no business wearing shorts? And are these uniform shorts crack-proof?

[Weruj1]

LMAO !

[distchief60b]

http://www.springhillfire.com/

Search around the site and email one of the Shift Commanders. They wear shorts but I am not sure what the written policy is. I am sure they will help.

[DRA177]

We've been in shorts (BDU) for over two years. As nozzleman stated, I was apprehensive at first. But down here in southern Florida it tends to be a little on the warm side.

Our policy states in short: uniform shorts can be worn year round, white or black shocks, lace up boot or sneaker no higher than 6".

They can be worn with bunker gear, but are discouraged if wearing nomex jumpsuits (wildland).


CaptD

[engine23ccvfd]

We have a specific policy against shorts. Reason being is a member who decided to stand in some burning grass for a couple of minutes got burned thru his wildland gear. Now most of us keep a nylon/cotton dickies short sleeve jumpsuit in our lockers to put on if responding while wearing shorts....cant wait till I am the dumb*** standing in a fire and I melt the dickies to my leg....


Stay Safe and Cool

[RockyRd]

The Suffolf Country Fire Academy has set the following regulations regarding what clothes are suitable for "live" fire training. My dept following these guildlines for all fire grounds.

Suitable Clothing

Firefighters participating in "live" training exercises will not be allowed to wear shorts or bathing attire (except if full bunker gear is worn.). Full-length trousers are required. Tank top shirts are not allowed as their use may result in injury to the trainee.

[explr985]

WSFD does'nt allow them, and us explorers can't wear them when we ride or to meetings BUT I have tried on my pants in shorts and that is way uncomfortable. I can't stand the boots and liner in my pants touching my skin. I prefer pants to anything, and I found wearing shorts makes me even HOTTER than wearing pants. Weird huh?

[dmleblanc]

Our policy states in short: uniform shorts can be worn year round, white or black shocks, lace up boot or sneaker no higher than 6".

White or black shocks? Is this a reference to those folks who shouldn't be wearing shorts?

Being in an all-volunteer department, we always respond from home or wherever we are at the time. Sometimes you're in shorts, sometimes not. (When responding at night, it's usually right into the turnouts in my skivvies....) I'm used to the feel of it, doesn't bother me. I don't know of anyone who has sustainted a burn injury attributed to wearing shorts under turnouts. I suspect (just my opinion, mind you) that if you got that hot through your turnouts you'd get burned whether you had long pants or not.