Flight suits and protective coveralls can help save ag pilots' lives. So why don't we wear them?

摘要

Before I began flying as an ag pilot, I worked in law enforcement, retiring as a sergeant after 32 years. During one hot summer afternoon on patrol, I saw that one of my young deputies working in the Wasco, Calif., area was not wearing his ballistic vest, an item of equipment that could save his life. When I asked him why, the deputy replied, "It's too hot and I can't move in it." I asked him if his comfort was more important than something that could help save his life. As for the heat, he should drink plenty of fluids to stay hydrated, I told him. The deputy ended up putting his vest on, and soon he was used to wearing it just like any other piece of equipment.