The state-of-the-art vehicles will be used by Dumfries and Moffat crews serving on the retained duty system.
Firefighters based at Dumfries and Moffat will respond to emergencies in brand new appliances after two state-of-the-art vehicles were declared ‘on the run’.
Since taking possession of the Volvo FLH 15s Scottish Fire and Rescue Service (SFRS) crews at the stations and have been working to ensure they can be used to their full potential.
The vehicles each cost almost £235,000, weigh approximately 15 tonnes and carry an on-board water supply of around 1,800 litres.
Fully automatic transmission means the appliances are easier to drive and more fuel efficient than older vehicles, while a state of the art pump complete with electronic pump control helps regulate the flow of water to crews.
As dedicated rescue pumps they come equipped with hydraulic cutting equipment, spreaders, air bags and winches as well as multiple high pressure jets capable of being used in aggressive firefighting operations.
Area Manager Alan Fairbairn, the local senior officer for Dumfries and Galloway, said: “These appliances are designed for the wide-range of incidents faced by today’s firefighters and I’m delighted to see them come into use.
“Both vehicles carry full crews of up to six firefighters with specialist equipment needed to conduct road rescues, tackle fires and handle other emergencies.
“They are a significant asset and their deployment just a year after four other new appliances were brought to Dumfries and Galloway reflects our determination to ensure every community can rely on a truly modern, professional and properly-equipped service.
“This investment also shows the importance the service places on making sure our firefighters always have the right resources at their disposal as they work to protect people and property.”
The two newly-acquired appliances will be used by crews operating on the retained duty system out of Dumfries and Moffat.
Station Manager Colin Wallace, the commanding officer for Annandale and Eskdale, said: “Our firefighters at Moffat have been training with the new appliance over the past few months and it’s great to see it now available for operational incidents.
“In that time everyone has familiarized themselves with what is a state-of-the-art appliance and made sure they’re fully aware of how it and its equipment operates.
“I know they’re really happy to have this resource and it will be of great use whatever the nature of an emergency.”
As the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service is a national organization, the appliances will form part of a national fleet asset, to be deployed across Scotland to meet demand or as part of the service’s existing system of rotation and replacement.
Station Manager Craig McGoldrick, the commanding officer for Nithsdale, added: “The specialist fire and rescue cover our crews provide relies on their skill, professionalism and commitment.
“It’s a complex and challenging role and obviously having the right equipment is crucial if firefighters are to deliver that excellent service.
“This brand new appliance will be used by the retained crew here at Dumfries and I’ve no doubt they will relish having it at their disposal when they’re called to incidents.”
Above: Members of the Dumfries (top) and Moffat (bottom) crews with the new appliances.
