Firefighters give thumbs up to new $530,000 Bushfire Tanker - Inverell
Published: 04 Jul 2023 01:24pm
It’s the latest pride and joy in the engine bays at the Fire and Rescue NSW (FRNSW) Station at Inverell – a new $530,000 Bushfire Tanker to protect the state’s north.
The Isuzu multi-purpose four-wheel-drive is one of 18 new firefighting appliances being deployed across the state by FRNSW, in line with recommendations arising from the Inquiry into the 2019/20 ‘Black Summer’ bushfire disaster.
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.
Inverell FRNSW Captain, Robert Wighton, said the tanker is a ‘jack of all trades,’ designed to fight blazes in the bush or the main street of town.
“We’re thrilled with the versatility of the appliance,” Captain Wighton said, “The truck uses less water than traditional tankers, which also helps the environment.
“The ‘Halo’ system provides our crew with an added later of protection and peace of mind.
“The truck also features a spray nozzle on the front of the cab, allowing us to pinpoint the water flow, if necessary.”
Updated: 04 Jul 2023 01:28pm
Related safety topics
Most people have a plan for what they will do during a bushfire. Unfortunately, not every plan will withstand the test of a bushfire. Take 5 minutes to improve or make a plan at www.myfireplan.com.au [external link]
Details about this incident may change and should not be used as emergency information and/or advice.
For all life threatening emergencies, call Triple Zero (000)
For flood information, warnings or requests for non-life threatening assistance, call the SES on 132 500 or visit the NSW State Emergency Service website here. [external link].
For information directly relating to bushfires please call the Bush Fire Information Line on 1800 679 737 or visit the NSW Rural Fire Service Website here. [external link]
Stations nearby
59 Evans Street, Inverell NSW 2360
44 Finch Street, Bingara NSW 2404
19 Geddes Street, Warialda NSW 2402