Bermuda’s firefighters are in the pink after deciding on an eye-catching change of uniform.

The rugged men of the Bermuda Fire and Rescue Service, tasked with the difficult, dangerous and often dirty job of putting out fires, usually wear drab, practical clothing in the line of duty.

But underneath those protective overalls, our firefighters will be wearing bright pink T-shirts this week as part of Breast Cancer Awareness Month.

The idea for the campaign came from emergency medical dispatcher Donna Hendrickson, who was diagnosed with the disease four years ago.

Ms Hendrickson, 54, spent nine months in the US receiving treatment before getting the all-clear in October 2009.

She said that the support of her family and work colleagues helped her make a full recovery, and had inspired her to now raise awareness about the disease.

“I think the compassion that was shown to me by everyone at work was just overwhelming — even more overwhelming than the diagnosis itself,” Ms Hendrickson, who has worked for the service for ten years, said.

“Having the right attitude is so important when you are undergoing treatment and your friends and family can play a major role in helping you keep that right attitude and stay strong.”

The T-shirts carry a Breast Cancer Awareness logo, designed by retired firefighter Arthur Raynor of Alisha Graphics. They were printed and bought from Island Embroidery on Front Street, and partial proceeds will be donated to the Bermuda Cancer and Health Centre.

“We originally ordered 120 shirts but we’ve had to place another order because more and more of my friends — people who aren’t even in the fire service — are asking for them,” Ms Hendrickson said.