Lakeland Fire is proud to find itself represented in fire departments across the world. Whether firefighters wear our firefighter turnout gear, wildland gear or our extrication suits, we are supporting health and safety for firefighters in both city and rural fire departments.
Part of our focus is to provide educational resources for firefighters, department administration and distributors to help them understand not only the critical nature of safety in the field, but also, make sure they have access to affordable protective clothing.
Most recently, we were pleased to be a part of the Fire Instructors Department Conference (FDIC), providing information and resources to fire personnel on the latest in turnout gear technology and advancements in fire safety. Moreover, we were proud to showcase members of Team Lakeland, both in our booth and on the course at the opening weekend of the Firefighter Challenge season.
Here is a quick recap of recent events:
FDIC Turnout Gear Educational Booth
The Lakeland Fire FDIC booth was a great success. We had firefighters and product experts on hand to talk about the Lakeland Fire turnout gear difference. From LazerMax trim, a patented silver reflective seam on the arm, shoulder and knee offering increased visibility, to the athletic cut of Lakeland Stealth premium turnout gear, we had a lot to showcase and demonstrate.
In fact, firefighters were given the opportunity to try on Lakeland turnout gear. They were encouraged to move, flex and maneuver to see how Lakeland Fire turnout gear fits and feels like no other brand. Through three days of demonstration and conversations, we had hundreds of people stop by to see the Lakeland team and view our turnout gear infographic on current trends in the industry. Thanks to everyone who had a chance to stop by, including members of our #GearUp community of firefighters!
FDIC Firefighter Challenge
The opening competition of the season could not have gone better for members of Team Lakeland. Through pouring rain on the first days of competition, Team Lakeland member Ryan managed to secure a 1st place win, with a time of 1:25 in the individual race in a field of 130 competitors. Sean posted an impressive result as well, shaving 10-seconds off his season start time last year. He placed 5th in the Over 40 category and 27th overall.
In the tandem relays, Ryan placed 1st and 3rd in the competition, racing in the co-ed category with world champion Jacqueline Palmer from Las Vegas, and Keltie-May Nicoll from Alberta, Canada, respectively.
Sean and Ryan competed together in the tandem competition as well, finishing 7th overall with a time of 1:26.86. Sean also posted great results in the Over 40 tandem, winning 1st and 3rd place.
Lakeland Fire Stealth
One of the greatest aspects of being a part of the firefighter combat challenge is to see Lakeland Fire turnout gear in action. Growing communities of firefighters are using Lakeland gear in competition because of the fit, feel and maneuverability. In fact, Stealth gear was prevalent around the competition, with many competitors asking how to get it not only for the competition, but for their department as well.
The latest, most advanced turnout gear on the market today is Lakeland Fire Stealth Kombat Flex and it made quite an impression at FDIC; it was worn by the champions of the team category and runner-up in the relay.
FCC: Lake Charles, Louisiana
Team Lakeland member Sean recently attended the FCC competition in Lake Charles, Louisiana. He shaved another 2- seconds off his individual time and found himself on the podium with a 2nd place finish in the Over 40 category and 13th overall. With heavy rain on the second day of competition, Sean still managed to finished 1st in both the Co-Ed and Over 40 tandem categories, with Jacquie Palmer and Carl Dickerson, from Lake Charles. Their times were 1:37.54 and 1:36.36 respectively.
FCC: Branson, Missouri
Ryan attended the FCC event in Branson, Missouri, held May 6th through May 7th. He finished 1st in the individual category with a time of 1:21:43 and also placed 2nd in the tandem category with a time of 1:17:09.
Stay tuned for the latest updates on Team Lakeland! Next up is Virginia Beach, May 20 – 21.
Within more than 30 pages, you’ll find tips, tricks and information you need to get started in training or refining your favorite fitness routine. From nutrition to gear, exercises to DIY course set up, this eBook has something for every firefighter at every fitness level.
Lakeland Stealth™ Turnout Gear is the ultimate in fire protection technology. Advanced ergonomics combined with cutting edge materials give you superior protection with maximum freedom of movement. Learn more about Lakeland Stealth and #GearUp with Lakeland.
