The new vehicles – called Light Rescue Pumps (LRP) – are more compact and agile, allowing for better access in both urban and rural settings.
Powered by a Euro 6 engine reducing the amount of exhaust emissions emitted, the LRP is shorter and narrower, which is useful when roads are busier and in built up cities. The smaller dimensions also make the vehicle turning circle smaller which is useful for manoeuvring and access.
When responding to rural emergencies where there is the likelihood of narrow roads, trees and overhanging branches, the roof-mounted equipment – such as fire ladders – are stowed in such a way to minimise the chance of impact any impact and keep the overall height of the vehicle as low as it can possibly be.
One element that is unique to the LRP that other service vehicles don’t have is an ultra-high pressure lance (UHPL). This firefighting system can blast water through concrete and steel and means that some elements of firefighting can be conducted externally.
The LRP carries a range of battery-powered gadgets and tools which are more flexible to operate when attending incidents and previously would have needed to be connected to an engine driven generator when in use. The removal of the generator enables a further reduction in exhaust emissions from the appliance.
Staff across Hampshire Fire and Rescue Service have contributed to the design, capabilities and overall concept of the new vehicle.
Head of Operational Assets, Darren House said:
“We wanted to produce a more agile and flexible vehicle into our fleet, and we’ve gone through a significant process of collaboration with our staff to really understand that operational need.
“Despite the more compact nature, the appliance is very well equipped and a considerable amount of thought and effort has gone in to utilising every inch of available space within the vehicle. There are several stowage and locker improvements to ensure the equipment is easily accessible, at the right height for manual handling, and the right location on the vehicle for when approaching different types of incidents.
“Following these new vehicles, the Service’s intention is to introduce more, and during that process we will look to evolve, improve and continue that element of co-design so that we can produce the assets that our crews need to complete their duties.”
The LRP’s key equipment features are:
- Ultra high pressure lance
- Suite of battery powered Edraulic cutters, spreaders and ram
- Pedal cutter
- Selection of single battery platform powered tools including reciprocation saw, impact driver and drill
- Battery powered portable floodlights
- 2 x Thermal imaging cameras
- 3 x Breathing apparatus (BA) sets and spare cylinders
- Individual BA stowage incorporating quick release system
- A range of firefighting delivery hoses
- Longer ‘Cleveland’ hose length
- PPV Fan
- A range of firefighting extension ladders
Work is progressing to secure the procurement of more appliances to continue the updating of Hampshire’s operational fleet.
The stations receiving the first 10 LRP’s are Hightown, St Mary’s, Rushmoor, Southsea, Winchester, Andover, Gosport, Havant, Fareham and Basingstoke.