Walton on Thames’ firefighters are being equipped with new hi-tech breathing apparatus to keep them safe as they tackle blazes to protect local people.

 

Surrey Fire and Rescue Service has invested nearly £900,000 for 190 sets of breathing apparatus. These sets, together with 600 compressed air cylinders, have modern safety features including an in-built electronic device that works out how much air a firefighter is breathing and how long it will last in a burning building.

 

Kay Hammond, Cabinet Member for Community Safety, said: "Safety is our top priority which is why we are investing in the fire service to make sure our firefighters have the equipment they need to save lives.

 

"The new breathing apparatus will make it safer and easier for them to protect the public while saving money through pooling resources with other fire services."

 

Surrey Fire and Rescue Service teamed up with the eight other fire services in the South East to use their collective purchasing power to drive down costs. As well as buying breathing equipment, the service has purchased uniforms for each of its 750 firefighters and kit such as helmets and fire-resistant tunics and trousers.

 

By working together the group has struck a deal that will save Surrey Fire and Rescue Service nearly £400,000 over the next four years.

 

The old uniforms will be recycled along with the old equipment by the service's contractors, Cosalt and Draegar Safety, rather than sending it to landfill.

 

Surrey Fire and Rescue Service's Assistant Chief Officer Paul Oughton said: "This investment in new fire engines, operational equipment and uniforms for our firefighters will better protect our firefighters and the communities they serve as well as increasing our ability to work more effectively with neighbouring fire services.

 

"Not only are we recycling all our old breathing apparatus and uniforms, our chosen uniform contractors, Hunter's Apparel Services, have also pledged to make a donation to the Fire Service Charity for every tonne of clothing we recycle."