A key part of my role is making sure our people have the equipment they need, to deliver services into their communities and across Victoria.
A number of new features differentiate the trucks from heavy pumpers currently in use
So, it’s very exciting when I get to share that $10 million worth of brand new heavy pumpers have arrived and are to be deployed across selected growth areas around the state.
With technology always changing, so too are what we consider the best equipment and resources for firefighters.
I’m happy to say that the 12 brand new heavy pumpers are modern, state of the art resources that allow our people to do their job to the best of their capabilities.
As part of the design process, we reviewed our current heavy pumpers, and spoke to firefighters about how to make improvements to our existing fleet. The feedback and support we received from across the state was vitally important in the design and production of these new pumpers and in fact all appliances we design and deliver.
There are a number of new features that differentiate these trucks from the heavy pumpers currently being used:
• New road accident support equipment has been stowed on the vehicles, allowing us to be an effective support at motor vehicle accidents.
• Deploying battery powered technology, making this the first vehicle that embraces the use of battery powered tools and equipment as replacements to the petrol powered equipment currently in use. CFA is the first fire service to adopt battery powered positive pressure fans, with no carbon emissions.
• A new solid red colour on the truck is the brightest red available, potentially improving safety when responding to incidents. It is based on research from Europe that indicates solid colours are more distinguishable by the public as an emergency vehicle.
• Stowage of new Safe Working at Heights and Low Voltage Fuse Removal equipment, which coincides with CFA’s introduction of training programs in both of those areas.
• Other features include thermal imaging camera, multi-gas monitor, newly designed hose reels, improved pump governor and electronics, and improved access for maintenance.
Having seen first-hand the level of work that has been invested into these appliances, from consultation and design, through to training and deployment, it’s exciting to see them rolled out across the state.
Having the best resources helps us work together with communities to keep Victorians safe.
Check out my colleague Craig Brownlie in the video below walking through the new features on the brand new heavy pumpers: