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First Evolution
From the mid-nineteenth century until the 1920s the costume worn by firefighters was very similar to that worn by soldiers in the civil war a red cotton shirt a scarf tied around the neck thick black woollen trousers knee-high boots and a long brown leather jacket. -
Second Evolution
In the 1940s, the National Firemen's Protective Association created a standard garment to protect firefighters when fighting fires that had greater flame protection, could withstand heat in excess of 500 degrees Fahrenheit (260 degrees Celsius) for a period of five minutes, and required a second layer of existing moisture-wicking materials and a third layer with the ability to insulate against various forms of heat. -
Third Evolution
The NFPA 1971 standard on equipment for firefighters emphasises that every person who provides life-saving service at any time shall be provided with trousers, gloves, full coveralls, helmet, special footwear, goggles and other fire protection equipment. -
Fourth Evolution
A firefighter's suit can withstand temperatures up to 1500 degrees Fahrenheit 815 Celsius and severe radiant temperatures of high 3000 Fahrenheit and 1650 Celsius. It is composed of four layers with a thermal and moisture barrier layer that insulates the sleeves and is manufactured in a curved ergonomic design with an Arashield finish for wear protection.