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A fire service has donated one of its used fire engines to a community in Africa to help improve their emergency response.
Cumbria Fire and Rescue Service gifted the Volvo FL6 Fire Appliance to the Blantyre City Council Fire Brigade located in souther Malawi.
The appliance is in the process of being transported, complete with a fire hose, branches and an assortment of firefighter personal protective equipment.
Cumbria has enjoyed links with the South East African country over recent years, and learning visits having taken place between the respective fire services.
The introduction of six new Scania fire appliances to Cumbria last year meant that the Volvo had reached the end of its life within the service, and the donation was agreed by Cumbria Fire and Rescue Service and approved by Cumbria’s Police, Fire and Crime Commissioner.
Owen McCarney, Cumbria Fire and Rescue Service Group Manager, said, “This contribution reflects our commitment to international collaboration and supporting communities in need. The fire appliance, which has served Cumbria faithfully for many years, will now play a vital role in enhancing the firefighting capabilities of our colleagues in Malawi.
“We hope that this donation will significantly improve emergency response services in Malawi, helping to protect lives and property. Cumbria Fire and Rescue Service is honoured to make a difference beyond our national borders.”
David Allen, Cumbria Police, Fire and Crime Commissioner, said: “This is a fantastic opportunity for Cumbria to strengthen international ties whilst providing a much-needed piece of equipment to a community that will benefit from it.
“The Volvo still has plenty of life left in it yet, so I was delighted to agree to it being sent to Malawi.
“I wish the fire service in Malawi all the best with their new appliance, I hope it serves them as well as it served Cumbria and hope that we can continue to build on our international collaboration.”
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