Saving Lives in the Field: The Lifesaving Potential of Riot Gear
Though riots have been documented throughout history, they have become more frequent in recent years as seemingly peaceful political protests turn into mass chaos. Unfortunately, this makes it difficult and potentially dangerous for those there to maintain peace and protect innocent citizens. Riot gear can keep you safe whenever the climate of a protest changes or you walk into an already heated situation.
Protecting Those Vital Parts
While some rioters go right for the head or chest, knowing the havoc it could bring, sometimes, the injuries done are accidental amid rage and adrenaline.
When you wear the right gear to protect these areas, like a helmet and chest protector, you prevent a potentially accidental or intentional deadly attack, whether it’s from a glass bottle to the head or a kick to the chest.
Even in cases when death doesn’t occur, the riot gear could prevent a severe injury, one that may cause long-term consequences, such as:
- A traumatic brain injury
- Internal bleeding
- A punctured lung
- A rib fracture that lacerates an organ
Being Ready for Anything
You don’t know what’s going to happen during a protest. Sometimes, what seems calm with people chanting and praying can turn ugly, and you could face danger. As part of law enforcement, you must be ready for whatever is thrown your way to keep yourself safe.
Riot gear is one of those things that’s better to have when you don’t need it than not to have it and need it.
Using Materials Known for Optimal Protection
In the past, companies have placed counterfeit equipment on the market that puts officers at risk. The equipment may use substandard manufacturing processes and materials, which also leaves law enforcement susceptible to injury and death. Older riot gear doesn’t provide the same level of protection, either, as technology has allowed for safer materials.
Thermoplastic
Today’s riot gear, especially from a reputable company, uses materials like polycarbonate, a high-resistance thermoplastic that is also flexible, durable, and chemical resistant. We can’t forget to mention that it’s lightweight, so you’ll still be able to move around freely without excessive bulk.
Kevlar and UHMWPE
Helmets commonly consist of UHMWPE, short for ultra-high-molecular-weight polyethylene or Kevlar. Kevlar is a tough, heat-resistant material developed by DuPont. Both of these materials can handle a great deal of force or weight.
Both Kevlar and UHMWPE are high-tensile materials, meaning they withstand a large amount of pressure and are ideal at shielding against bullets while remaining lightweight and easy to move in.
In Kevlar, the fibers spread the force, preventing blunt or penetrating trauma from impacting the body, usually the skull. The UHMWPE will deform and stretch whenever an object comes in contact with it. As a result, the material both absorbs and disperses the force. It’ll then return to its original form.
Utilizing Superior Manufacturing and Design Processes
Nowadays, high-rated companies use superior design and manufacturing processes to ensure the results are products that last and protect well.
One way companies achieve this is by designing equipment with multiple layers. The result is a product with layers that can absorb impact more efficiently. Besides the foam padding, the manufacturer may place a ballistics layer for the optimal level of protection.
A prime example is the Enforcer, which uses hard and soft plates, butterfly ballistics panels, and spike armor.
Another technique used is advanced joining, such as ultrasonic and laser welding, to strengthen the joints so the gear remains intact and in place when needed.
Impacting Your Confidence
When you have the right gear to protect you, you can walk into a situation with your head held high. You can then defend yourself and the public without worrying about the harm that could come your way.
Wearing the Right Gear for the Job
You wouldn’t walk into a surgical room without a mask, so why walk into a potential riot situation without the right protection? By choosing high-grade equipment and the correct pieces, you can be prepared for situations that put you in danger.
If you have any questions, contact us today at 321-461-2059.