New fire engine for Manly
Published: 3rd May 2011
Fire and Rescue NSW (FRNSW) Commissioner Greg Mullins will today formally hand-over the keys of a new $560,000 fire engine to firefighters at Manly Fire Station.The fire engine features a pump that supplies up to 4000 litres of water a minute for firefighting operations and a foam system to fight chemical, petrol and bushfires.
The new vehicle is fitted with a GPS navigation unit and an electronic message board on the back to warn motorists of emergency operations. The engine meets stringent emission standards.
"An upgrade such as this ensures that our firefighters have the best equipment and the latest technology to ensure the safety and protection of themselves and the people they protect," Commissioner Mullins said.
"Manly's firefighters do a tremendous job protecting the community and this vehicle will ensure they have the best equipment and the latest technology for their work."
The Manly crew responded to 1408 fire and emergency calls in 2009/10 and took part in more than 350 community safety activities to educate locals about fire safety.
FRNSW Zone Commander for the North Shore and Northern Beaches, Superintendent Kel McNamara, said that many people don’t realise the wide variety of situations firefighters are called on to deal with.
"Manly Fire Station covers a big area and is called to a range of incidents from cliff rescues and car accidents to emergency incidents on the harbour, and of course fires," he said.
Supt McNamara said this week is Fire Prevention Week, which is aimed at raising fire safety awareness and concludes on Saturday (7 May) with Open Day. Visit www.fire.nsw.gov.au for more information.
"A key objective of Fire Prevention Week this year is to get people to complete the quick and easy to use home fire safety audit at www.homefiresafetyaudit.com.au to help families be prepared for winter fire safety dangers," said Supt McNamara.