New fire vehicle to improve response in rural areas

Leicestershire Fire and Rescue The new variable response vehicle Leicestershire Fire and Rescue
The new variable response vehicle has been introduced as part of a six-month trial

A Leicestershire fire station is set to trial a new response vehicle designed to improve the service's response capabilities in rural areas.

Uppingham Fire and Rescue Station will introduce a new Variable Response Vehicle (VRV) on Monday as part of a six-month pilot.

The service said the VRV would "enhance" its emergency response due to its "improved capability for rural areas and extreme weather conditions".

The ride height and width of the VRVs also allow fire crews to traverse surfaces and reach areas a standard fire engine may not be able to, the service added.

Leicestershire Fire and Rescue The new variable response vehicle Leicestershire Fire and Rescue
The VRVs are equipped with a high-pressure misting system that allows officers to make more efficient use of water when extinguishing fires

Callum Faint, chief fire and rescue officer, said: "The trial of our brand-new VRVs emphasises our dedication to embracing innovation and improving our operational efficiency.

"We are confident that the trial of this investment will significantly contribute to the overall effectiveness of our service."

Trials have already started in Leicestershire, at Market Bosworth Fire Station and Wigston Fire Station.

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