A new departmental uniform policy is keeping some D.C. firefighters from wearing sweaters or coats while they brave the elements.

The new policy concerns the logos and patches that can be worn by emergency responders.

Under the change, uniforms bearing "DCFD" must go and the old plain black of blue winter coats paid for by the firefighters are no longer allowed.

D.C. Fire and EMS views itself as a para-military organization and is striving to no longer be a homeland security risk by allowing firefighters to wear unmarked uniforms, a spokeswoman said.

This latest change to the department's uniform policy is the fifth in less than a year.