Gonna get myself connected

Crew on both the ILB and the ALB have Gecko protective helmets as part of their PPE. On the ILB these are worn at all times and on the ALB they are worn only at certain times (re-housing, boarding a casualty, in the 'x' boat). You might notice in the picture that the top 4 helmets have a wire sticking out of the back. These are the ILB Helmsmen's helmets and are wired up so they can hear what is being said by the radio operator while they are sat at the back of the boat next to the engine. This is an extra function which has been added to the new 'D' class (IB1) which wasn't present on the old one. These are a great pice of kit, many crew dislike wearing them however they are without doubt a lifesaver in certain circumstances.

If you make sure you're connected
The writing's on the wall
But if your mind's neglected
Stumble you might fall
(Stereo MC's)