Suffolk firefighters get flood suits
Flood suits have been given to all front line fire appliances in Suffolk.
As part of the Suffolk Fire and Rescue Service (SFRS) Flood Enhancement Programme, local firefighters were able to try on the new suits for the first time at an official launch at Needham Market Fire Station.
The flood suit, provided by Safequip, is a two piece garment which, when worn with additional protective clothing, allows the wearer to perform water and bank based rescues.
This provides the service with an enhanced capability and, together with the more specialist water rescue trained crews at fire stations in Ipswich, Lowestoft and Bury, fire crews all over Suffolk will now be able to support and carry out water related rescues from flooding and other similar situations.
In addition to introduction of the flood suits, two new low build appliances were also launched today to help firefighters navigate their way around Needham Market and Stowmarket, which are home to low bridges.
The new vehicles are provided by Emergency One Ltd along with Volvo trucks and have been extensively modified with the roof lines lowered and the suspension replaced by a fully air-operated system.
Councillor Colin Spence, Suffolk County Council’s cabinet member for public protection said; “Today’s launch was an important day for Suffolk Fire and Rescue Service. The introduction of the new flood suits will enhance firefighters’ ability to respond to incidents involving deep water and flooding and continue to do all they can to protect the people of Suffolk.
“The addition of the two new low build vehicles, which are unique to Suffolk, will also make a positive impact on journey times and allow firefighters to navigate the streets of Needham Market and Stowmarket and respond effectively to all foreseeable emergencies.”
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Weather for Haverhill
Thursday 20 June 2013
Today
Light rain
Temperature: 12 C to 18 C
Wind Speed: 13 mph
Wind direction: East
Tomorrow
Thunderstorm
Temperature: 11 C to 19 C
Wind Speed: 14 mph
Wind direction: South west

