Fire Brigades Union warns of safety risks as Dorset and Wiltshire fire engines removed

by Featured NewsVehicles

Fire engines removed from Dorset and Wiltshire stations without notice

Firefighters in Dorset and Wiltshire recently raised concerns after finding fire engines missing when they reported for duty in September.

Fire appliances were removed from stations in Sturminster Newton, Wareham, Corsham, and Marlborough on September 19th and throughout that week.

As reported by the Fire Brigades Union, the Dorset and Wiltshire Fire and Rescue Service had previously announced plans to cut fire engines and reduce fire cover across the region.

However, firefighters were not informed of the removal of these fire appliances on the specified dates.

According to the Fire Brigades Union, these cuts have raised concerns about the safety of both firefighters and the communities they serve.

The Union condemned the reduction in resources, stating that it places the public and firefighters at increased risk.

Fire Brigades Union voices concerns over consultation process

During an October 1st Fire Authority meeting, representatives from the Fire Brigades Union criticised the lack of consultation over the fire engine removals.

They argued that the cuts were made without properly engaging with firefighters or the local community.

The Union emphasised the importance of communication between the Fire Authority, firefighters, and the public regarding decisions that directly impact safety.

Matt Wrack, general secretary of the Fire Brigades Union, stated: “Dorset and Wiltshire Fire and Rescue Service is clearly trying to get away with cuts by stealth.

“Axing fire engines and downgrading firefighter cover will hollow out any last resilience.

“The public, and the workforce, deserve a say in their service.”

Incident highlights risks of reduced fire cover

A week after the fire engines were removed, a fire broke out in a Corsham flat.

While enough firefighters for two crews responded, only one fire engine was available due to the recent cuts.

This forced the second engine to travel from Chippenham, causing delays.

Firefighters successfully tackled the fire and rescued an occupant, but the Union warned that such delays could lead to more severe outcomes in the future.

The Fire Brigades Union highlighted the risks of downgrading fire stations like Chippenham, which may soon lose guaranteed night-time cover.

They stressed that the recent incident only avoided disaster by “luck,” underscoring the potential dangers of the reduced fire service capacity.

Val Hampshire, Executive Council member for the South West, said: “As we saw last week, firefighters are dangerously thin on the ground, with disaster only avoided by luck.

“Plans to slash fire cover will mean that there may be no back-up next time.”

Calls for restoration of fire engines and halt to cuts

The Fire Brigades Union is calling for the immediate return of the fire engines that were removed and for Dorset and Wiltshire Fire and Rescue Service to abandon plans for further downgrades.

The Union is urging the Fire Authority to prioritise public and firefighter safety by reconsidering the cuts and ensuring adequate fire cover across the region.

The Fire Brigades Union continues to advocate for better communication and consultation with the workforce and the public, aiming to prevent future tragedies and ensure that sufficient fire service resources are maintained.

Fire Brigades Union warns of safety risks as Dorset and Wiltshire fire engines removed: Summary

Firefighters in Dorset and Wiltshire discovered missing fire engines when they reported for duty in September.

The removals were part of cuts announced by the Dorset and Wiltshire Fire and Rescue Service, which the Fire Brigades Union claims jeopardise safety.

A fire in Corsham a week after the cuts highlighted the risks, as only one crew could respond due to the missing fire engine, delaying the emergency response.

The Fire Brigades Union criticised the lack of consultation and is calling for the return of the fire engines and a halt to further cuts.

Dubai Civil Defence partners with FIRE AID to deliver wildfire vehicles to Africa

by Featured NewsMiddle East - Breaking NewsVehicles

DCD and FIRE AID Partnership brings wildfire vehicles to African countries

A new partnership between Dubai Civil Defence and FIRE AID has been announced to deliver wildfire-specific vehicles to African countries.

This initiative aims to reduce the environmental impact of wildfires while enhancing firefighting capabilities across the continent.

The first phase of the project involves working with UK-based Angloco Limited to design and manufacture specialized wildfire response vehicles.

These vehicles will be donated to Kenya, Morocco, and Ghana, marking the first time such equipment has been deployed in these regions.

By enhancing the capacity to respond to wildfires, the vehicles will aid in reducing emissions and protecting communities from the destruction caused by fires.

Repurposing decommissioned vehicles for sustainable impact

In the second phase of the project, Dubai Civil Defence will donate decommissioned vehicles to several African countries.

These vehicles will be fully equipped and serviced before deployment, ensuring they remain operational and extend their service life.

The initiative will help FIRE AID continue its work in countries like Malawi, The Gambia, Zimbabwe, Ghana, and Kenya.

This repurposing of vehicles represents a sustainable approach, preventing usable equipment from being scrapped while supporting firefighting efforts across Africa.

Comprehensive training will be provided for local fire services, ensuring that the vehicles are used effectively in managing wildfires.

Global collaboration on wildfire response

This collaboration exemplifies the growing trend of global partnerships focused on firefighting and environmental protection.

By working together, Dubai Civil Defence and FIRE AID are helping to build stronger fire response capabilities across Africa.

The involvement of Angloco Limited, the Department for Business and Trade, and various African fire services further highlights the international commitment to reducing the impact of wildfires.

The initiative will also contribute to global data collection on fire-related emissions.

Data from the usage of these vehicles will be integrated into Dubai Civil Defence’s fire tracking systems, providing a valuable resource for improving wildfire response strategies worldwide.

Leadership perspectives on the initiative

Lt Col Essa Almutawa, representing Dubai Civil Defence, emphasised the significance of this initiative: “This initiative is a testament to our leadership’s unwavering commitment to innovation, sustainability, and global solidarity.

“It reflects our core belief that we must always strive to do more, extending our expertise and resources to where they are needed most.”

David O’Neill MBE, Chair of FIRE AID, also commented on the partnership’s potential: “Leveraging our established networks throughout the continent to bolster the objectives of the Dubai Civil Defence represents an effective approach to swiftly enhance capability in the region, improve environmental conditions, and ultimately save lives.”

Dubai Civil Defence and FIRE AID partner to deliver wildfire vehicles to Africa: Summary

Dubai Civil Defence and FIRE AID have announced a partnership to deliver wildfire-specific vehicles to African countries.

The project aims to reduce the environmental impact of wildfires and improve firefighting capabilities across Africa.

The first phase involves the delivery of newly designed wildfire vehicles to Kenya, Morocco, and Ghana.

In phase two, decommissioned vehicles will be repurposed and donated to several other African nations.

The project is part of a broader collaboration involving Angloco Limited, the Department for Business and Trade, and fire services across Africa.

Magirus marks 160th anniversary and founder’s 200th birthday in Ulm

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Celebrations of Magirus’ historic milestones in Ulm

As reported by Magirus, the global manufacturer of firefighting equipment recently hosted a ceremony in Ulm, Germany, to commemorate its 160th anniversary.

The event took place on September 26, 2024, marking a dual celebration of the company’s founding and the 200th birthday of its visionary founder, Conrad Dietrich Magirus.

Magirus, who established the company in 1864, was a driving force in modernising fire protection.

The ceremony honoured his lifetime achievements, particularly his role in creating the Ulm Volunteer Fire Brigade and the German Fire Brigade Association.

The event also highlighted the rich history of the company, which began its journey in Ulm, the birthplace of Magirus in 1824.

Honouring the past and looking to the future

The anniversary event in Ulm was more than a celebration of history.

Magirus also used the occasion to look ahead at future developments.

Guests participated in a varied programme, which paid tribute to the company’s historical milestones while offering insights into its plans for upcoming innovations.

Under the theme “The Bulls are back,” Magirus recalled its legendary vehicle designs from the 1970s and 1980s.

Magirus CEO Thomas Hilse stated: “This day is more than just a tribute to the past.

“It is also an occasion to look to the future and to shape the coming chapters of our company history together with our customers, partners and employees.”

Support for the firefighting industry

The event also provided a platform to discuss the future of the firefighting industry and the challenges it faces.

Magirus CEO Thomas Hilse emphasised the need for greater political support to ensure the long-term profitability of the industry.

Hilse called for the introduction of a “price escalation clause” in public tenders to minimise inflation risks and urged customers to be more involved in production pre-financing due to the long production times of fire engines.

“These issues affect not only Magirus but the entire industry,” said Hilse, stressing the importance of rethinking the public sector’s role in procurement and funding.

Adapting to changing market needs

Magirus has responded to the evolving demands of the firefighting industry with several innovative products.

Marc Kuntz, Head of Sales and Customer Service at Magirus, noted that urbanisation and the construction of taller buildings have increased the need for more advanced firefighting equipment.

He said: “That’s why we are now looking forward to the first deliveries of our new SmartControl product generation.”

The company also addressed the growing demand for aircrash rescue and firefighting vehicles, showcasing the updated DRAGON NEO.

This vehicle now includes an automatic driving safety system and a new powerful Cursor 13 Euro6 engine, aligning with the needs brought on by the rise in post-pandemic travel.

Magirus marks 160th anniversary and founder’s 200th birthday in Ulm: Summary

Magirus recently hosted a commemorative event in Ulm, Germany, on September 26, 2024, celebrating both its 160th anniversary and the 200th birthday of its founder, Conrad Dietrich Magirus.

The ceremony honoured the company’s historical achievements while also presenting an outlook on its future innovations.

Magirus CEO Thomas Hilse highlighted the need for political support in the firefighting industry, calling for measures such as a “price escalation clause” in public tenders.

The company also showcased its new products, including the SmartControl turntable ladder and the updated DRAGON NEO, addressing the growing demands of the firefighting industry.

Are Mobile Command Centers the future of on-site emergency management?

by Breaking NewsVehicles

Kevin Ruef, Co-Founder and Director at 10-8 Systems, offers insights into how Mobile Command Centers are reshaping emergency response

In the public safety sector, being able to provide citizens with fast and effective emergency response services rests on the ability of first responders to execute accurate decision making and coordinated actions.

But this is hard to do without the right tools and resources at their disposal.

Mobile common centers (MCCs) are becoming more common around the country and are acting as a critical solution for providing on-site incident management – effectively reinventing how emergency responders approach crisis intervention.

MCCs are allowing for more adaptability when out in the field, providing the technology and communication necessary to ensure public safety through improved situational awareness and more efficient response capabilities.

What are Mobile Command Centers?

An MCC, or mobile command center, is a self-contained emergency response unit that can be deployed on-site in the event of various situations to support operations management procedures.

The units are highly sophisticated and have evolved from built-in basic trailers and vans to much more technically capable units housed in large buses or specially designed vehicles.

The primary use of an MCC is to facilitate the ability to bring critical infrastructure and communication capabilities right to the field where an emergency situation is occurring.

It then becomes the main hub where efforts are coordinated by individuals on the ground.

Modern MCCs have an array of tools and capabilities at their disposal to help improve the outcome of emergency situations.

This includes:

Advanced communication solutions: MCCs make use of direct satellite links as well as broad range networks to help them communicate clearly and efficiently with various first responders and supporting agencies.

MCCs can also be integrated with next-generation 911 (NG911) systems for even more accurate communication and data sharing during emergency situations.

Real-time data analysis: MCCs are capable of gathering and processing important information in the field, such as through sensor networks or drone footage that allows them to analyse situations and provide real-time data analysis to emergency response teams.

Intelligent video surveillance: Most MCCs are equipped with intelligent video surveillance systems, including support for aerial drones and body cameras to help monitor dangerous situations and help teams plan tactical strategies.

These systems can also be used for evidence collection and to greatly improve situational awareness for all parties.

Mapping and weather monitoring: Certain MCCs are designed to provide support during natural disasters.

These mobile solutions often come with the ability to report on real-time geographical information and weather data.

This can include high-resolution mapping, geospatial analysis, and weather forecasting capabilities.

Why are Mobile Command Centers beneficial to the public?

Mobile command centers can offer a number of different advantages that directly support various public safety solutions and benefit citizens.

Some of these benefits include:

Better communication capabilities: MCCs can significantly improve communication capabilities during emergency scenarios compared to traditional dispatch situations.

These on-site solutions allow seamless information sharing for all parties involved in a public safety issue, including first response teams, local law enforcement, and government agencies.

In addition to providing additional support when helping to address major issues, most MCCs are increasingly equipment to help drive next-generation 911 (NG911) systems.

These mobile units allow for the transmission of voice, text, data, and multimedia exchanges that provide emergency dispatch centers with a clear context of the issues on the ground and call in the appropriate support needed.

Data-driven decision making:  Since MCCs have immediate access to advanced data analytics tools, they’re able to process a significant amount of information from multiple sources.

This data can then be utilised to identify important trends or patterns in emergency situations, allowing them to forecast certain types of risk in various areas around the city and make smarter decisions about the allocation of critical resources.

For example, during a wildfire situation, MCCs can use their onboard weather sensors and satellites to predict the path of spreading fire and its relative intensity.

This enables firefighters to be better prepared and placed strategically to help increase public safety.

Improve situational awareness for first responders: In various situations, it’s absolutely critical for ground responders to have as much information about ongoing issues as possible to protect both their safety and the public.

MCCs give first-response teams a comprehensive view of incidents taking place and help them make smarter decisions when resolving them.

By providing emergency response teams with a bird’s-eye view of buildings and neighbourhoods, they’re able to provide important information needed to carry out their duties in the most effective way possible.

Where and how can Mobile Command Centers be used?

MCCs are highly versatile, which means they’re able to be used in a wide range of scenarios – whether they were planned or not.

This includes:

Natural disasters: In the event of a hurricane, flood, wildfire, or any other major natural disaster, and MCC can quickly be deployed to any affected area while providing support directly at impacted sites.

MCCs can be a critical resource when helping to manage evacuations of certain areas or provide additional support to first responders in the area.

Large public events: During large events like concerts or festivals, there may be a number of security and logistical challenges that need more coordination and support.

In these cases, MCCs can become a helpful central hub that is used to manage crowd control procedures or be used as a quick resource in the event of an emerging security issue.

Major accidents or public threats: During major accidents or persistent threats to public safety, MCCs act as a critical command center for helping to coordinate response efforts.

These situations could be in the form of a major city accident, a hazardous materials spill, or police incidents.

Search and rescue operations:  In the unfortunate situation where individuals go missing or become lost in more remote areas, an MCC helps to support local search and rescue operations.

They can be used to help provide satellite coverage of search areas while also coordinating the use of helicopters and other resources.

Improving public safety with advanced resource tools

Mobile command centers have become essential support tools for any number of predictable and unpredictable public safety events.

They allow emergency responders to act decisively while coordinating efforts with supporting agencies and the media.

Although there are still some challenges associated with their cost and the need for regular technological improvements, the benefits of MCCs far outweigh their drawbacks and will continue to be an invaluable asset used to ensure public safety.

This article was originally published in the September 2024 issue of International Fire & Safety Journal. To read your FREE digital copy, click here.

Ziegler delivers new hygiene vehicle to Lünen fire department

by Featured NewsHealth and SafetyVehicles

Advanced hygiene vehicle enhances safety for Lünen firefighters

Ziegler recently delivered a GW-Hygiene vehicle to the Lünen fire department.

The vehicle is designed to assist in the decontamination of firefighters at the scene of incidents where hazardous substances are present, such as fire smoke and soot.

The vehicle includes designated black and white areas, ensuring that contaminated materials remain separate from clean equipment, in line with the department’s “Hygiene in Fire Service Operations” concept.

This strategy aims to minimize exposure risks for firefighters by facilitating quick decontamination and the distribution of fresh emergency clothing at the scene.

As reported by Ziegler, the GW-Hygiene vehicle has various advanced features.

Its loading area accommodates up to six roll containers, allowing a wide range of equipment to be safely transported.

Additionally, the vehicle serves as a mobile recovery point for emergency crews after physically demanding tasks.

By supporting rapid decontamination and re-equipping of personnel, the vehicle helps restore operational readiness while preventing the spread of contaminants.

Key features of the GW-Hygiene vehicle

The GW-Hygiene vehicle is built on a MAN TGM 12.250 chassis with a total permissible weight of 12 tons.

It has specific design features aimed at maintaining hygiene and operational efficiency.

The vehicle’s water supply system includes a UV filter for disinfection, while a connection hose to a hydrant ensures a continuous supply of clean water.

A wash water tank was omitted due to drinking water standards.

The vehicle is equipped with an integrated fresh waste water system that includes a wash basin and boot washer.

Additional features such as an awning provide protection when working outdoors, and side doors facilitate easy access to roll containers, allowing the vehicle to be quickly prepared for use.

These features help the Lünen fire department maintain hygiene and ensure safety during fire service operations.

Hygiene-focused design in black and white areas

The vehicle’s interior design is centered around the black and white areas, which are designated for contaminated and clean materials, respectively.

The black area is equipped with dispensers for infection protection gloves, FFP2 masks, and disinfectant wipes, as well as holders for laundry bags.

A washstand is also provided to help firefighters decontaminate on site.

The white area contains a workstation with a Plexiglas-covered surface, storage drawers, and a clothes rail for clean uniforms.

These features allow emergency services to quickly change into fresh clothing after removing contaminated gear.

According to Ziegler, the vehicle’s design helps mitigate contamination risks and ensures that crews remain ready for ongoing operations.

Ziegler emphasises safety for emergency services

Timm Struck-Winkler, Head of Sales North at Ziegler, said: “We are proud to be able to hand over this advanced vehicle to the fire department of Lünen.

“With the GW-Hygiene, we are ensuring that our brand promise ‘We provide security’ also applies to our customers, the emergency services who use our products.”

Ziegler’s delivery of the GW-Hygiene vehicle reinforces its commitment to supporting fire departments with state-of-the-art equipment that prioritises the health and safety of emergency crews.

The GW-Hygiene vehicle represents an important addition to the Lünen fire department’s fleet, enhancing their capacity to manage hazardous situations while maintaining stringent hygiene standards.

Ziegler GW-Hygiene vehicle delivered to Lünen fire department: Summary

Ziegler has delivered a new GW-Hygiene vehicle to the Lünen fire department.

The vehicle is designed to support the decontamination of firefighters exposed to hazardous substances during operations.

It features separate compartments for contaminated and clean materials, ensuring proper hygiene at the scene.

Built on a MAN TGM 12.250 chassis, the vehicle includes a UV-filtered water supply system, an integrated waste water system, and compartments for the secure handling of contaminated equipment.

Ziegler’s Head of Sales North, Timm Struck-Winkler, expressed pride in the delivery, highlighting the company’s commitment to ensuring the safety of emergency personnel.

Rosenbauer provides fully electric turntable ladder to Burgenland fire department

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Rosenbauer delivers fully electric turntable ladder to Burgenland State Fire Brigade

Rosenbauer has delivered its fully electric L32A-XS turntable ladder to the Burgenland State Fire Brigade.

The handover took place in the presence of several prominent officials, including Provincial Councillor Heinrich Dorner and State Fire Brigade Commander Franz Kropf.

This electric vehicle, built on a Volvo FE Electric chassis, will be stationed at the new aerial rescue base in Eisenstadt.

Alongside the new electric turntable ladder, a conventionally powered version will remain in use.

Both models feature the same tactical firefighting capabilities, with the primary difference being the electric drive concept.

The L32A-XS electric is powered by three electric motors, supported by three lithium-ion batteries with a combined capacity of 198 kWh.

Turntable ladder features identical performance and safety

The fully electric L32A-XS offers the same performance, functionality, and reliability as a conventional turntable ladder.

Rosenbauer has ensured that the turntable ladder structure remains identical, with only the drive system differing.

Key features such as the movement profile, working height, and payload capacity remain consistent across both the electric and conventional versions.

The L32A-XS electric has a payload of 500 kg, making it suitable for transporting up to five people, including individuals in wheelchairs.

The vehicle is equipped with high-performance hydraulics for fast setup times, and the rescue basket features a fully integrated water supply with an attached water cannon for firefighting operations.

Battery capacity ensures extended operational range

The L32A-XS electric is equipped with a 198 kWh battery system, which provides sufficient power for multiple operations without requiring recharging.

For example, in a typical urban deployment with a 5 km journey and 30 minutes of light mast operation, the vehicle uses around 20 kWh of energy, leaving enough reserve for additional callouts.

In rural settings, a round trip of 60 km and extended operational use would consume approximately 52 kWh, still leaving capacity for further deployments.

To ensure continuous reliability during prolonged operations, the battery can be recharged during use if external power is available.

Charging can be carried out via standard industrial sockets or suitable direct current charging stations.

Volvo chassis supports Rosenbauer’s electric turntable ladder

The L32A-XS electric is built on a Volvo FE Electric chassis, which is powered by two electric motors generating 225 kW of continuous power.

The power is delivered through an automated 2-gear transmission system connected to the rear axle.

Additionally, a third electric motor provides power for the turntable ladder’s operation, ensuring the system is fully electric from vehicle propulsion to ladder manoeuvring.

This electric configuration allows the ladder to operate with zero emissions and reduced noise, offering an environmentally friendly solution for firefighting operations while maintaining the same safety and efficiency as conventional vehicles.

Rosenbauer provides fully electric turntable ladder to Burgenland fire department: Summary

Rosenbauer has delivered a fully electric L32A-XS turntable ladder to the Burgenland State Fire Brigade in Austria.

This new electric vehicle will be stationed at the aerial rescue base in Eisenstadt alongside a conventional ladder truck, both offering the same tactical firefighting advantages.

The L32A-XS electric, built on a Volvo FE Electric chassis, is powered by three electric motors and a 198 kWh battery system, ensuring reliable performance across multiple operations.

The vehicle is designed to handle both urban and rural firefighting scenarios, with advanced hydraulics and a 500 kg capacity rescue basket.

Magirus partners with Karba Otomotiv for firefighting vehicle distribution in Turkey

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Joining forces: Magirus and Karba Otomotiv partner in Turkey

Magirus has announced that it has granted distribution rights in Turkey to KARBA OTOMOTIV ANONIM SIRKETI (“KARBA”), a leading Turkish manufacturer of municipal and firefighting vehicles.

This partnership is intended to strengthen Magirus’ presence and performance in Turkey and Northern Cyprus, providing enhanced support to local firefighting departments.

As reported by Magirus, the collaboration will bring together the innovative technologies and products of Magirus with KARBA’s established market presence and service infrastructure in Turkey.

The partnership is expected to deliver high-quality firefighting solutions to the region.

Enhanced service and support: Focus on firefighting solutions

Magirus, a global market leader in turntable ladders, will leverage KARBA’s extensive service network in Turkey to enhance customer support.

KARBA, with its nine service centres and expertise in the local market, will collaborate closely with Magirus’ field service teams from Ulm, Germany.

Thomas Hilse, CEO of Magirus, stated: “KARBA is the ideal company to represent the Magirus brand in Turkey and support firefighters to do their vital work even more effectively.”

The partnership aims to set new standards in firefighting through the combination of Magirus’ advanced technology and KARBA’s local expertise.

Strategic realignment: A milestone for Karba Otomotiv

The partnership is considered a significant milestone for KARBA, furthering the company’s ambition to enhance safety standards and operational capabilities for fire departments in the region.

Musa Ertunc, CEO of KARBA, expressed confidence in the cooperation, highlighting how Magirus’ experience in firefighting technology complements KARBA’s strengths.

Marc Kuntz, Director Sales and Aftersales at Magirus, noted the importance of this partnership for Magirus’ strategic realignment.

He emphasized KARBA’s capability to provide comprehensive customer support across Turkey, thanks to its established service infrastructure.

Immediate implementation: Rapid deployment of new projects

The cooperation between Magirus and KARBA takes effect immediately, enabling both companies to commence work on new projects without delay.

The rapid implementation underscores the urgency and commitment to enhancing firefighting capabilities in the region.

Karba, Turkey’s largest manufacturer of body-mounted vehicles, boasts a production area of 40,000 square meters and employs approximately 200 workers.

The company, which exports to 63 countries, has led the municipal vehicle market in Turkey for the last five years.

Magirus grants distribution rights to Karba Otomotiv for firefighting vehicles in Turkey and Northern Cyprus: Summary

Magirus has entered into a partnership with KARBA Otomotiv Anonim Sirketi (“KARBA”) to distribute its firefighting vehicles and equipment in Turkey and Northern Cyprus.

This collaboration, which takes effect immediately, combines Magirus’ advanced firefighting technology with KARBA’s local expertise and service infrastructure.

The partnership aims to enhance safety standards and improve operational efficiency for fire departments in the region.

KARBA, a leading manufacturer of municipal and firefighting vehicles in Turkey, will leverage its extensive service network to support Magirus customers across the country.

Ziegler provides new foam firefighting vehicle to Krommenie fire department

by Featured NewsVehicles

Ziegler vehicle details and capabilities

As reported by Ziegler, the Krommenie fire department in the Dutch safety region Zaanstreek-Waterland received a new foam firefighting vehicle on July 29, 2024.

The vehicle, built by Ziegler Brandweertechniek B.V., is based on a 4-axle Mercedes-Benz Arocs 8×4/4 chassis and has an engine output of 460 kW (625 HP).

The Mercedes-Benz cab accommodates a crew of 1+1.

The vehicle’s ALPAS superstructure allows it to carry over 11,000 liters of extinguishing agent, providing robustness and durability in everyday operations.

It is equipped with a Ziegler FPN 10-8000-1H centrifugal fire pump, which handles high flow rates of extinguishing agent.

This, combined with the Ziegler ZPF foam proportioning system, ensures effective firefighting.

Advanced features for efficient firefighting

The new firefighting vehicle includes two remote-controlled turrets, located at the front and roof, which deliver extinguishing agents accurately and safely.

Additionally, the vehicle has a 250 kg powder extinguishing system for enhanced firefighting capabilities.

For flexible and rapid deployment, the vehicle features two 40-meter low-pressure hose reels, each with a delivery rate of 400 liters per minute.

The intuitive Z-Control operating system allows for simple and efficient control of all functions, even under stressful conditions.

Enhanced pumping capacity

The vehicle is designed to deliver around 8,000 liters per minute at an inlet pressure of 3.5 bar through its submersible pumps.

It includes two 3” connections for the connection, ensuring high performance during operations.

The Krommenie fire department’s new vehicle enhances their ability to respond to emergencies with advanced firefighting technology and reliable performance.

Concerns raised over fire cover in Dearne Valley due to staffing issues

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Fire cover concerns in Dearne Valley

Concerns have been raised regarding the adequacy of fire cover in Dearne Valley due to current staffing arrangements.

As reported by the Rotherham Advertiser, figures presented to Rotherham Council revealed that in December last year, the on-call fire engine at Dearne Fire Station was available for less than five per cent of the time.

This station, which opened in 2010, replaced the Brampton and Mexborough stations and operates with both full-time and on-call part-time firefighters.

Inconsistent availability of on-call firefighters

The availability of the on-call fire engine has been inconsistent over the past year, with the best figures still showing it idle for more than three days in ten due to insufficient staffing.

Councillor Simon Ball, a member of South Yorkshire Fire Authority, expressed concerns about the adequacy of fire cover in Dearne Valley during a Rotherham Council meeting.

Councillor Stuart Knight echoed these concerns, highlighting issues of underfunding and understaffing within the service.

Fire Brigades Union criticises on-call system

The Fire Brigades Union (FBU) has criticised the management of the on-call system, which relies heavily on part-time staff.

FBU spokesman Matt Nicholls described the system as “antiquated” and “fundamentally flawed”, citing the difficulty for part-time firefighters to remain within five or six minutes of the station for up to 120 hours a week.

Nicholls questioned why full-time firefighters were not used on overtime to provide better cover, noting that the service had underspent in recent years.

Efforts to improve on-call staffing

South Yorkshire Fire and Rescue Service acknowledged the challenges of maintaining on-call appliance availability, stating: “Recruitment and retention to all our on-call stations continues throughout the year.

“Nationally, the UK fire and rescue service faces challenges in relation to on-call appliance availability.

“SYFR has invested significant resources and financial support to ensure we achieve high levels of appliance availability.”

The service reported that on-call availability during the first three months of this year was 62 per cent, with expectations of improvement as new firefighters complete their training.

Rosenbauer delivers electric fire trucks to Paris-Orly and Charles de Gaulle

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Groupe ADP receives two electric fire trucks

Rosenbauer has delivered two fire trucks from its “Revolutionary Technology” (RT) series to Groupe ADP for use at Paris-Orly and Paris-Charles de Gaulle airports.

This marks the first time an airport operator has ordered this innovative vehicle.

As reported by Rosenbauer, the RT’s electric drive enables it to quickly and safely reach operational areas within the airport grounds, conducting most operations purely electrically.

This results in no local CO2 emissions and significantly reduced fuel costs.

The RT can also be equipped with advanced firefighting technology such as roof monitors and foam proportioning systems, making it ideal for various airport scenarios, including building fires and rescue operations.

First vehicles operational for Olympic Games

Groupe ADP’s acquisition aligns with its 2025 Pioneers roadmap, which aims for zero net emissions on the ground by 2030 for Paris-Orly and 2035 for Paris-Charles de Gaulle.

The first RT vehicle was accepted in early April and is set to become operational at Paris-Orly Airport following successful firefighter training.

The second vehicle was transferred to Paris-Charles de Gaulle Airport in May.

Both vehicles will be available in time for the Olympic Games in July.

Sebastian Wolf, CEO of Rosenbauer International AG, expressed satisfaction with the order: “We are very pleased with this order from Groupe ADP, as it is the first from an airport operator.

“With its electric drive and innovative vehicle architecture, the RT not only contributes to reducing CO2 emissions but also sets new standards in digitalization and health protection for emergency personnel.”

About the “Revolutionary Technology” fire truck

The RT fire truck was first presented to the public in September 2020, following a three-year development phase based on insights from the Concept Fire Truck study.

Since its market launch, 43 units have been delivered worldwide.

The RT is highly adaptable to specific requirements and conditions.

It features a sophisticated system architecture, including an integrated driver and crew cabin, low entry and operation levels, and multiple energy sources, making it particularly resilient in crises.

Key technical data for the RT includes an advanced driveline with two high-voltage batteries and permanent electric all-wheel drive, a width of 2.35 meters, rear axle steering, and a cabin for six people, including four seats with breathing apparatus.

It is also equipped with an NH35 pump, a Variomatic 48 foam pressure proportioning system, a 2,000-litre water tank, a 200-litre foam tank, outlets at the front and rear, an RM 15C roof monitor, an 18 kW power supply unit, and country-specific adjustments and mounting for two Rosenbauer One Person Reels.