London, Mar.30 (ANI): A new uniform has been designed for firefighters in Britain’s Lincolnshire area, including options of full-length skirts, long-sleeved shirts, hijab headscarves and turbans. The Government said the new clothing was better fitting, giving firemen and women more protection, as well as looking more professional.

The new grey and red coloured range of clothing, which also includes maternity and sportswear, was introduced on Monday at the Lincolnshire Fire and Rescue Service, The Telegraph reports.

Fire Minister Sadiq Khan said: “We want the widest range of applicants to apply to join the fire and rescue service. To do achieve this it is important that all applicants - men and women - know that the uniform and clothing they will be issued with will not only protect them, but also will fit properly and be comfortable.

“The introduction of more appropriately fitted clothing is just one initiative to help to both retain female firefighters and encourage others to consider a fire service career.

“Fire prevention is vitally important today as we continue the aim of driving down fire deaths. To achieve this, the fire and rescue service needs employees from all ethnic groups to reflect the diversity of our communities. This will enable better mutual understanding during fire safety visits,” he added.

Jagtar Singh, spokesman for the Asian Fire Service Association, commented: “We are pleased to note that the fire service is now taking seriously the issues of culture and religious belief when purchasing corporate and protective clothing for firefighters.”

Nicola Lown, from Gloucestershire Fire and Rescue Service, who helped test the new uniform, said: “The uniform was comfortable in its entirety and the trousers, for once, fitted well.” (ANI)