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As the leather helmet evolved it went through several stages of development before settling into the standard style that is worn today. Theoretically the more combs that a helmet had the stronger that the helmet was, and for a long time twelve-and sixteen- comb helmets were available for use. FDNY adopted these helmets in the late 1800's and their popularity spread across the rest of the U.S, by the turn of the century. Around that same time aluminum helmets were introduced as an alternative to the heaviness and bulkiness of the traditional leather variety. These helmets were lighter true, they were also were cheaper than their leather counterparts, but they have problems beyond that of the leather helmets. Metal however disguised to look like leather, still conducts both heat and electricity making it quickly apparent for firefighters that these alternatives would not work with the complexities of firefighting, As a result firefighters turned back to the old standby,their tough leather lid had truly stood the test of time. However in 1979 the National Fire Protection Association created it's standards on structural firefighter helmets, causing a shift in the requirements needing to be met for an approved helmet. The new standards made for the original thinking on how to best design the helmet. More modern materials such as fiberglass, found use in many of the new designs, again creating a lighter helmet than the heftier leather ones. The fiberglass and composite plastic helmets unlike the aluminum stayed strong and durable, and also kept the firefighters safe regardless of the job that they were asked to perform. A helmet is just as individual as the firefighter who is wearing it, and it tells the story of his or her years of service better than anything else. Some departments require leather because they have stood the test of time and have proven to withstand the worst of conditions. Others have restrictions against them putting faith in the new materials that do not strain the neck as much. The inseperable relationship between the firefighters and their leather helmets has sparked a group known as the Fraternal Order of Leatherheads, which is a group that promotes the brotherhood of firefighters, says the leather helmet is an international sign of a firefighter, a symbol that is significant in not only tradition from the early years of firefighting, but one of bravery, integrity, honor and pride. Whether you wear fiberglass, plastic, leather or something else ,the helmet serves as a practical reminder of the hazards of the job, and the bravery of those who wear them.

Thank you for that inspiring piece of Firefighting history. I will look at my helmet differently now :)

Yes, I would really appreciate it if you would share that clip with me. Thank you SR

You are so Right Ltpitcher Amen,to that.

This is for Firedoglvf and all of the new members that joined Hardheaded Firefighters.

Hey jc ever heard of National Fire&Rescue lots of good info.

Yes that is the magazine take a look at Jan-Feb 08 you find some info.

I love what's inside the helmet, other than your mellon...



I love the warning stickers in fire helmets.

My old helmet (Cairns N881 AR):

"WARNING: FIREFIGHTING IS INHERENTLY DANGEROUS."



My current helmet (Cairns Leather N6A Sam Houston):

"... FIREFIGHTING IS A DANGEROUS ACTIVITY. YOU MAY BE KILLED OR INJURED USING THIS PRODUCT."



Crap! No one told me this was a dangerous job! HA HA!

Rock climbing Firefighting it is all inherenly dangerous.

Firemanjoe ever take a look on EBAY?

Well how much are you looking to spend?

Ok firemanjoe sometimes i hear of a deal from time to time. I will let you know if i hear of any at a resonable price.

You are so right chase just like i said you just dont know what the next call will bring.

jc take a look.

Ok jc let me know how you make out.