Following investment from Royal Berkshire Fire Authority, new fire engines have been deployed at Newbury and Theale fire stations.
The newest Volvo fire appliances have been built by Emergency One in Scotland, before being sent to Berkshire, where crews have undergone comprehensive familiarisation training ahead of going on the run.
On Monday, 21 July, the keys to the new vehicles were officially handed over to both sets of crews. Both fire engines at Newbury are being replaced with the new vehicles and the fire engine at Theale is also being replaced.
Councillor Jeff Brooks, Chair of Royal Berkshire Fire Authority said: “These newest appliances represent a substantial investment into our fleet from the Fire Authority.”
“These state-of-the-art vehicles are part of the aligned Thames Valley series but boast a range of innovative features to enhance firefighter safety and wellbeing – which is of paramount importance to us.”
“The Fire Authority has prioritised investing in frontline fire appliances, recognising the importance of providing fit for purpose equipment to support the services provided by a modern fire and rescue service.”
The new fire engines have been built on Volvo FL 42R chassis, and are part of a programme to update the Service’s fleet with state–of-the-art vehicles, incorporating the latest technology.
They offer a range of capabilities for firefighters serving the communities of Royal Berkshire, including:
- For the first time in our fleet, these appliances will feature breathing apparatus (BA) stowage outside the crew cab, bringing numerous benefits:
- Cleaner cab environment: Reducing risk of contamination from BA sets.
- Safer mounting and dismounting: Easier and safer access for firefighters.
- Enhanced comfort: Proper seat backs and easy-to-reach seatbelts.
- Rapid access to BA: Quick-release lockers behind the cab with height-adjustable cradles for easy retrieval on scene.
- Improved crew welfare:
- We are committed to firefighter wellbeing, and these appliances reflect that with enhanced features:
- ‘Sentinel’ air purifiers: Maintaining a cleaner and healthier cab environment using innovative technology.
- Fridges: Providing cool drinking water for crews.
- Hand wash basins with hot water: Improving hygiene and comfort.
- Privacy screens: Offering the option for a dedicated changing space for firefighters to remove contaminated clothing.
- Air conditioning: Ensuring a comfortable temperature for crews, whatever the weather.
As before, the fire engines include a standardised inventory across Berkshire, Oxfordshire and Buckinghamshire – making it easier for our firefighters to ensure a swift and effective response when called to emergencies where two Services are in attendance.
To find out more about RBFRS’ fleet, please visit: rbfrs.co.uk/fleet.
