The Great Helmet Debate with Jerry Helm

The battle over the traditional fire helmet and what I’ll call the Eurohelmet is growing as some U.S. departments make the switch.

It’s hard to nail down exactly why firefighters are unhappy about wearing the new helmets. They’re safer. They weigh less. And they offer better eye protection.

The older style is undoubtedly iconic. But is that a reason to keep wearing them?

Here to explain why his department chose the Eurostyle helmets is Jerry Helm.

Jerry is a training and recruitment captain with the Central Whidbey Island Fire & Rescue in Washington state. It’s a combination department.

Jerry headed up the effort to make the switch to these helmets.

Jerry’s email

Jerry’s article: Traditional vs European

Article: What’s so funny about the helmet?

Article: Tradition vs Progress: The Art of the American Fire Helmet