Super engines fire into action

STATE OF THE ART FIRE ENGINES — READY FOR SERVICE

FIRE chiefs have unveiled 16 new green machines that will be better for the environment while helping save lives.

The shiny state-of-the-art fire engines worth £2.8million will be delivered to fire stations throughout Greater Manchester.

Crews have already started training with all the Volvo vehicles expected to be in service by Christmas.

The new fire engine bodies are built by John Dennis Coachbuilders in Guildford using a lightweight, non-corrosive and recyclable co-polymer which provides a longer lifespan than the traditional alloy and steel bodies and is 100 per cent recyclable. They are also 750kg lighter, and the design makes handling easier and safer.

The chassis was manufactured at a high-tech C02-free facility in Belgium with radio equipment and other electronics installed at work shops in Leigh.

The engines are cleaner yet more powerful and meet exhaust emission levels that are not due to become mandatory until October, 2009.

Fire authority chairman Councillor Paul Shannon handed over the keys to delighted Deputy County Fire Officer Tony Proctor.

Councillor Shannon said: “These 16 appliances together with the eight delivered earlier this year represent a capital investment of £3.8million, making this fleet one of the most modern in the UK.

Deputy County Fire Officer Tony Proctor said: “We have no doubt that the public will benefit from these excellent vehicles to complement the high quality service already delivered by our firefighters.”