Fire protection for the community of Kurri Kurri, in the Hunter Valley, has been significantly bolstered by the arrival of a state-of-the-art Fire and Rescue NSW Bushfire Tanker.
The Isuzu multi-purpose four-wheel-drive is one of 18 new firefighting appliances, each valued at $530,000, being deployed across the state by FRNSW, in line with recommendations arising from the Inquiry into the 2019/20 ‘Black Summer’ bushfire disaster.
Compressed Air Foam System
It features a Compressed Air Foam System (CAFS), which combines foam and water to douse fires
It features a Compressed Air Foam System (CAFS), which combines foam and water to douse fires much faster and in a more environmentally friendly manner than earlier-model tankers.
The tanker is also fitted with a special ‘Halo” sprinkler system that can create a shield of water over the cabin to protect the crew from fire, along with a 3500-litre water tank.
Kurri Kurri FRNSW Captain, Wayne Redfern, said the crew is thrilled with the versatility of the new tanker.
Fire protection
“Whether it’s dealing quickly with a semi-trailer fire on a freeway or accessing rugged scrub to put out a bushfire, this tanker can do while providing high-level protection,” said Captain Wayne Redfern.
Emergency Services Minister, Jihad Dib, said the fleet of new tankers provides an added layer of fire protection for the community.
Jihad Dib stated, “Another 14 tankers are on order, which will take the number of new appliances across the state to 32 to ensure our firefighters can continue to protect the communities they serve.”
