In an effort to reduce fire and road fatalities in the country, the Ministry of Housing and Local Government has handed over a Mercedes-Zetros Port Rescue Fire Truck to the National Fire Authority.

Speaking at its commissioning yesterday, Minister for Housing and Local Government, Maciu Nalumisa says the 1.5 million dollar investment marks a new era for firefighting in Fiji and the Pacific region as it is not just another fire truck but a technological powerhouse designed to operate in the most demanding conditions.

Minister for Housing and Local Government, Maciu Nalumisa says the commissioning of the new fire truck is a bold step in achieving NFA’s goal in enhancing service delivery and protecting lives and properties.

“It signifies the commitment of the current coalition government to support NFA in modernizing its facilities and its equipment so that it provides the best services to the people of Fiji when it comes to the protection of properties as well as rescue services in the areas of accidents on the roads as well as during natural disasters like flooding etc.”

According to Nalumisa, the vehicle was purchased to address the problem of water pressure because it allows them to rely on the rivers and seas rather than conventional water hydrants.

“One of the main challenge that NFA faces in municipalities like Suva is the water pressure. That was experienced when they were trying to extinguish the fire that burnt down the Defense Club and the contributing factor as to why it took time to fight that fire was because of the low water pressure. So, this type of machinery has got the capacity to go out to the sea and pump out water to support them in fighting some of these fires.”

NFA Chief Executive Officer Sowane Puamau advises the public that while the truck will be very helpful, people should continue to take precautions and keep their homes safe from fires.

“It doesn’t mean that we have this type of machine that we can stop all the fires in Fiji and that people should start neglecting their fire safety rules. However, we continue to advise the members of the public to be very cautious when they are around their homes.”

The specialized vehicle is equipped with a submersible system capable of drawing up to 10,000 liters of water per minute from sources up to 5 kilometers away.

This truck is also equipped with emergency rescue capabilities, including a front bumper winch with a 5,440 kilogram capacity and a rescue crane capable of lifting up to 6.8 metric tons.

(by: Ruci Ranitu | Journalist)