New look for officers - if the cap fits
POLICE officers across South Wales could swap their traditional helmets for baseball-style caps if a new trial proves successful.
The lightweight hats are being trialled by officers in some areas this month, with a view to them being introduced across the force area.
The force says the caps – known as “bump caps” – provide the same level of protection as the existing helmet but are more comfortable to wear on long shifts, more user-friendly in vehicles, and “more reliable in terms of remaining on officers’ heads”.
Officers will still wear the traditional-style helmets – known as Custodian helmets – for ceremonial duties.
South Wales is the latest force to ditch the Custodian or consider doing so.
North Wales Police made the switch from helmets to baseball caps more than a decade ago in a move which proved controversial.
The possible introduction of the caps by Wales’s biggest force follows a suggestion from staff.
South Wales Police deputy chief constable Richard Lewis said the force was an “innovative police service” and wanted to ensure officers had the best equipment.
He said: “We always listen to the views of our staff particularly in relation to how we best support them to do their job on a daily basis. We are always looking at ways we can modernise to ensure our officers are best equipped.
“This pilot forms part of our drive to create an efficient and modern force which cares about its staff and the public.”