Rapid response vest

Abstract

Disclosed are embodiments of high-visibility, lightweight, portable, compact, easily concealable identifier apparatus for use by law enforcement officers in plainclothes when an active shooter situation arises so as to reduce the risk of death or injury from misidentification as a potential perpetrator. This wearable vest apparatus allows the user unfettered access to both chest and belt-mounted equipment.

What is claimed is: 
     
         1 . An apparatus comprising:
 a foldable vest with an outer edge and a neckline, said foldable vest comprised of a background material, edging material about said outer edge and said neckline, front and rear identification panels, indicia of identification, a left fastener and a right fastener.   
     
     
         2 . The apparatus of  claim 1 , in which the background material is comprised of an ASNI-rated HiVis breathable mesh treated with a fire-retardant, self-extinguishing coating, the edging material is comprised of bias tape and sewn along said outer edge and said neckline, the front and rear identification panels are comprised of ASNI-rated HiVis reflective material that contrasts with the color of said background material, and the indicia of identification are black letters. 
     
     
         3 . The apparatus of  claim 2 , in which the fasteners are comprised of nylon straps and buckles. 
     
     
         4 . The apparatus of  claim 3 , in which the buckles are heavy duty side release buckles with corresponding male and female components. 
     
     
         5 . The apparatus of  claim 4 , further comprising a plurality of universal extender straps. 
     
     
         6 . The apparatus of  claim 2 , in which the fasteners are comprised of reflective micro cord passed through grommets in the vest and fastened with spring-loaded tension cord fasteners. 
     
     
         7 . The apparatus of  claim 2 , in which the fasteners are comprised of reflective micro cord passed through grommets in the vest and fastened with single cord locks. 
     
     
         8 . An apparatus comprising:
 a foldable vest with an outer edge and a neckline, said foldable vest comprised of a background material encompassing an ASNI-rated HiVis breathable mesh treated with a fire-retardant, self-extinguishing coating, bias tape sewn about said outer edge and said neckline, front and rear identification panels comprised of ASNI-rated HiVis reflective material that contrasts with the color of said background material, indicia of identification comprising black letters, a left fastener and a right fastener, each of said fasteners comprised of two straps sewn into said vest with a buckle for joining the straps, and configured to accept a universal extender strap.