EMS Responder Parka

In colder climates, there’s always a focus on keeping patients warm, but how about the responders? That’s where The EMS Responder Parka from 5.11 Tactical comes in. “We’re in the foothills, so we get snow, and this parka is very warm,” says Scott Vaughn, paramedic supervisor for Tuolumne County, CA, EMS. “Our whole department is wearing the parkas all the time. This jacket fits well, keeps you dry, has lots of pockets and comes in multiple colors. It’s a little pricey, but you get what you pay for.”
The jacket is waterproof and breathable, with a removable fleece-lined shell and a 3-way adjustable hood that either rolls into the collar or zips off. It also includes a zippered radio pocket on the left chest and zippered utility pockets on the upper sleeves. Vaughn is also impressed that this is not just a fire department jacket, but is designed specifically for EMS. “The difference is in the cut, the style and the material it’s made from,” he explains. “The fire department has to have all these burn-proof materials, where in our line of work, we’re not dealing with fires—we’re dealing with sick patients. Along those lines, it also has a stain guard, so vomit and other stuff repels off, which is really nice.” Visit www.511tactical.com.