For people who have to be available for emergency situations, day and night, the right equipment is crucial. It is also important that their footwear ensures the necessary comfort and reflects authority, just like the rest of their uniform. According to the Hampshire Fire & Rescue Service team, the Rapid Reaction Boot offers the perfect solution.

Profile of the organisation The Hampshire Fire & Rescue Service was originally a local fire brigade operating in the Hampshire region of England. These days, they also apply their professional skills to other emergency situations. These include floods, earthquakes, traffic accidents or environmental pollution, at home and abroad. This year, for example, they offered assistance after the earthquakes in New Zealand and Japan.

Rapid Reaction Boot
For the Hampshire Fire & Rescue Service team, the response time for taking action is usually very short. If every second counts, then the uniform must be designed accordingly.

Characteristic of the Rapid Reaction Boot are the two zippers on both sides of the lacing system. This makes it possible to put the boot on or remove it quickly after any contamination. This also means that it isn’t necessary to re-lace the boot again.

The team can face a variety of unexpected situations (fire, earthquake, etc.), so a shoe that is geared towards these situations is ideal. The boot has an antislip sole and a steel toecap and mid-sole to protect the foot from the penetration of sharp or falling objects. The laces and boot shaft are fully flame-retardant, thus also offering ultimate protection from fire hazard. Feet stay fresh and dry thanks to the inner lining with its moisture-absorbing and breathable features.

The sturdy Rapid Reaction Boot fully complies with the British norm (BS7971-5:2004) for personal protection devices used in situations or training exercises where violence is expected.

Mitre
Bata Industrials developed the Rapid Reaction Boot in collaboration with the dealer, Mitre of the United Kingdom. A supplier of footwear for public assistance services, Mitre supplies products to fire brigades, ambulance services, the British army and the police.