What? Yep, i said it. Why wear a raincoat in the rain? After all, aren't they more of a pain than a plus? Its like trying to direct traffic wrapped in a toga. Toga! Toga! Toga! Okay, that's a whole other blog...
Truth be told, in most cases we, as officers, try to avoid getting out in torrential downpours. Sometimes it just can't be avoided. But the following is an idea and something that I have done to make working in the rain, a little easier.
I don't like raincoats, as they are long and constricting for those "habeus grabus" moments. But I do like our department issued jackets. Many of the officers I have encountered over the years, from many jurisdictions, prefer their jacket over a rain coat any day. One catch - most standard law enforcement jackets aren't rainproof. But could they be?
Here's a trick: Wash your jacket on the Delicates cycle (if the instructions allow you to put it in the washer, as there are some pretty sophisticated outerwear out there) and be sure to either hang dry (see instruction on the label) or run through a cycle in the dryer after washing. Brush off ANY excess debris and place it on a large hanger. Now take it OUTSIDE and hang it up (preferably on a clothesline or one you have made from a rope between two points). Next, douse it with a spray on waterproofing agent. I prefer Campmor. Be sure to get it everywhere, especially around the collar, the arms, etc. I also spray the interior. After you are finished, let your jacket, as weather permits, air dry outdoors, for at least 2-3 days. TRUST ME on this one, as you do NOT want your jacket in the car or the house until it does. The fumes will get ya.
When you are done - Voila! A rain proof duty jacket!
Pros: The jacket will also repel body fluids (including vomit)
Cons: The time it takes to air dry out.
I have never come across any reports or experience where the Campmor had a negative effect on the jacket's material, either by the way.
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