Holbeach gets its first brand new fire engine
Holbeach Fire Station has its first ever brand new fire
engine - a £250,000 investment in new technology.
One specialised piece of kit on board is a fire fighting system known as ‘Coldcut Cobra’, which can send a 400mph mix of iron filings and water through walls.
The filings cut through steel and concrete up to 11ins thick, leaving tiny holes for a fine mist of water to subdue flames.
Holbeach county councillor Coun Nick Worth, executive member for emergency services, said Coldcut Cobra means firefighters can be outside the building and dramatically reduce the temperature inside - making it safer before they enter, and reducing internal damage to the building.
The new appliance carries 1800 litres of water, compared to 1400 on the older ones, along with 100 litres of foam, latest generation lighting and ladders, and additional road traffic collisions equipment for rescues from difficult places.
Thirty-three of the new Scania fire appliances are being rolled out across Lincolnshire and Coun Worth is delighted Holbeach is near the top of the list.
He said: “I see this as a worthwhile investment that has a direct benefit to the people of Holbeach and surrounding villages.”
The councillor was joined at Holbeach Fire Station by county fire chief Les Britzman - who took the new fire engine for a test drive around town with Coun Worth and firefighters on board.
“It’s the first time that Holbeach has actually had a brand new fire engine ever,” said Coun Worth. “Obviously they have always had second hand ones. They were very excited.”
The new Scanias also have on-board charging for handheld radios, thermal imaging cameras and torches.
Mr Britzman says the rollout of new fire engines makes Lincolnshire Fire and Rescue among the best equipped fire services in the UK.
* Donington was the first fire station in the county to get one of the new fire engines.
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