Detroit Fire and EMS now required to wear body armor

DETROIT (WXYZ) — After years in the works Detroit Fire and EMS will now be wearing body armor.

The new policy started today.

The firefighter association president is conflicted about the new change.

Mike Nevin says the job is dangerous. EMS and fire assaults happen frequently, so bulletproof vests are a welcome addition. But the problem he says is that they shouldn't necessarily need them in the first place.

"This is in response to the attacks on our medics and our firefighters and the fact that the city is that unsafe," Nevin says.

The level 2 vest are stab resistant according to Nevin. EMS must wear them at all times while performing on duty.

Firefighters will not have them when battling a fire but will for all medical runs, non-fire calls, or calls where dangerous activity is suspected.

Nevin says he's thankful for the additional protection but wishes it would be in the form of more police officers and worries it's a slippery slope.

"What's next. Tasers and guns? Body Cams?" he asks.

Some people in Detroit approve of the move but say they are frustrated for the necessity.

I did talk with the Detroit Fire Department. They are declining to comment, saying they do not wish to draw more attention to the policy moving forward.