It’s red and white (with a touch of yellow) and coming to town. No, it’s not Santa Claus – rather a new technical rescue vehicle to be based at Wollongong fire station.
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The new fire truck, worth $1.2 million, will hit the streets next year after the city was included as one of four NSW locations to receive the cutting-edge firefighting technology.
Two of the trucks will go into operation at Blacktown and Liverpool fire stations in February, after Fire and Rescue NSW crews complete the training required to use them.
Another two vehicles will be delivered to Wollongong and Newcastle later in 2018.
NSW Emergency Services Minister Troy Grant said the new trucks would see crews better-equipped to respond to major rescue incidents, including building collapses, heavy vehicle accidents and large animal emergencies.
“These highly specialised vehicles are the first of their kind in NSW and will increase the capacity of our firefighters to deal with some of the most difficult and dangerous rescue operations,” Mr Grant said.
WHAT’S IN THE NEW TRUCKS?
- Hydraulic tools for rescues at heavy vehicle accidents
- Specialised air trolley, rope rescue equipment and a stretcher for rescues in confined spaces
- Vehicle-mounted winch
- Portable LED lighting
- Specialised equipment for rescuing large animals
- Shades to provide shelter
