New fire tankers for Toronto and Killingworth

Firefighting efforts across the Lake Macquarie region have been fortified today with the arrival of a $310,000 Fire and Rescue NSW (FRNSW) tanker to Toronto Fire Station.

Minister for Emergency Services Troy Grant said the new tanker would enhance FRNSW’s capacity to deal with fires and other emergencies on the urban/bush interface.

Minister Grant visited the station with Member for Lake Macquarie Greg Piper. The pair earlier visited the RFS crew at Killingworth where another new tanker was formally handed over.

“When it comes to emergency services, you don’t get any more frontline than standing face-to-face with a fire, protecting lives and property,” Mr Grant said.

“That’s exactly why the NSW Government remains absolutely committed to ensuring our firies have the best possible equipment to keep them safe on the job, while helping them do what they do best – protect our local communities.”

Mr Grant said the new multi-purpose Isuzu four-wheel drive enables Toronto firefighters to access fires in difficult terrain.

“It also has a water spray protection system that can be operated from the cabin to best protect crew members during dangerous incidents,” Mr Grant said.

“The tanker can carry 3,500 litres of water and pump 1,900 litres of water a minute for bush and grass firefighting, and is equipped with firefighting foam as well as breathing apparatus for each crew member.”

FRNSW Newcastle Zone Commander Superintendent Gregory Windeatt said the new vehicle would support their vital work protecting people, property and the environment.

“Our fleet is made up of more than 650 fire and rescue vehicles across NSW, and our priority is to ensure firefighters are prepared for anything with the best vehicles available to help anyone, anywhere, anytime,” he said.

“Toronto firefighters do a tremendous job protecting the local community and this new truck will further improve the overall quality of our emergency response.”

In 2017/18, Toronto firefighters responded to 417 fire and emergency calls and took part in 114 activities designed to educate the local community about fire safety.