Barrow is to get a new state-of-the-art aerial ladder platform.
The attached pictures show some of the town's firefighters training on the new specialist rescue vehicle which is capable of working at heights of up to 32 metres.
The new ladder platform is much more advanced than its predecessor and is able to reach previously inaccessible places –such as the reverse side of pitched roofs.
As well as a built-in hose reel the ladder has a camera capable of transmitting pictures back to fire crews on the ground. The camera also has infrared so firefighters can detect 'hot-spots' in buildings before crews are sent in.
Firefighters are currently being trained to operate the new ladder which, when it enters full-time service early next year, will greatly enhance their ability to fight fires and undertake rescues at height
Cumbria County Council has purchased two new aerial ladder platforms, each costing £405,000. The second vehicle will be based in Carlisle.
Together, the vehicles will enable firefighters to work effectively at height when responding to incidents across Cumbria.
Councillor Gary Strong, cabinet member responsible for Cumbria Fire & Rescue Service, said: "This investment of nearly £1 million provides our firefighters will the latest technology when it comes to tackling blazes at height."
Cumbria’s Chief Fire Officer Dominic Harrison, said: "The existing turntable ladders at Barrow and Carlisle are coming to the end of their working life.
"We are delighted at the county council’s decision to invest in these replacement aerial ladder platforms which will greatly enhance our operational capabilities."
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Media enquiries to Mark Graham, Media Officer on 01228-606337
Notes
The image (jpeg) shows Barrow firefighters training in the town.