Specialist HAZMAT protection for Far South Coast
Published: 28th July 2010
NSW Fire Brigades emergency response capacity across the South Coast and Snowy mountains region has been boosted today with the delivery of a specialist hazardous materials (HAZMAT) vehicle to Bega Fire StationEmergency Services Minister Steve Whan today officially handed over the highly specialised Mercedes Benz Sprinter Van to the Bega station.
"This vehicle has been specifically designed to deliver a range of specialist resources to deal with one of the most challenging areas of firefighting, containing and recovering dangerous and hazardous materials," Mr Whan said.
"Servicing the South Coast, this vehicle also carries booms and emergency devices to deal with maritime HAZMAT incidents.
"This includes fuel spills from burning vessels as well as providing support to HAZMAT operations in the pristine high country."
Mr Whan said the Bega HAZMAT vehicle is part of the largest roll out of new and upgraded fire engines and support in NSWFB history.
NSWFB Acting Chief Superintendent David Felton, Area Commander Regional South said the specialist vehicle would further enhance the response capability of Bega Fire Station.
"Fleet upgrades such as this ensure that our frontline firefighters have the best equipment to ensure the safety and protection of their local communities," he said.