New fire and rescue truck comes with enhanced safety features

A NEW fire and rescue truck worth more than $500,000 is now stationed at Coraki, with hopes of strengthening emergency responses across the Northern Rivers.

The advanced vehicle enables firefighters to combat structural, chemical, petrol and grass fires using up to five times less water than traditional methods.

It uses a highly efficient system of foam concentrate mixed with compressed air to suppress flames.

The system also helps to reduce the amount smoke during a blaze.

Equipped with a modern ‘Euro 6’ cab chassis, the vehicle meets lower emission standards and incorporates the latest crash-avoidance technology, enhancing firefighter safety.

Fire and Rescue NSW assistant commissioner of regional operations, Steven Hayes, said the vehicle is suited for urban and regional areas.

“I know the Coraki crew has been very keen to get its hands on this new pumper and put it through its paces,” he said.

“The firefighters will spend the next few weeks familiarising themselves with the truck and testing its capabilities.”

It will be used to respond to a wide range of emergencies, from road crashes and flood responses to structural and grass fires.

Emergency Services Minister, Jihad Dib, said the government has invested an additional $17 million over two years in the renewal of the states firefighting fleet.

Six new firefighting tankers and a logistics vehicles have recently arrived in the region along with a new fire brigade station at Lennox Head.

The new vehicles are being used at Lennox Head, Mullumbimby, Main Arm, Cudgen Byron Bay and Chillingham.

This truck will serve Coraki and the Northern Rivers community well for many years to come,” Dib said.