Fire service upgrades fleet for wildfire response

South Wales Fire and Rescue Service has introduced four new welfare and wildfire response vehicles to its fleet, aimed at improving crew safety and support during prolonged incidents.

Built and designed in Wales, the vehicles are based on a Mercedes lorry supplied by Euro Commercials Cardiff and have been custom-built by Neath Coach Builders, with emergency warning systems installed by Elite of Bridgend.

The new units are designed to transport the service’s wildfire response assets, including Can-Am 6×6 all-terrain vehicles. Developed in collaboration with Fleet, the Wildfire Group and Operational Risk Management teams at SWFRS headquarters, the vehicles will replace existing Land Rover and trailer combinations, providing a safer response option for crews.

“This project is a perfect example of how innovation and teamwork can deliver real benefits for our crews. Our mechanics play a vital role in ensuring that every vehicle in our fleet is ready for any situation – from wildfires and floods to large-scale rescues. They are the silent backbone of our operational response.”

Chris Temby, Head of Fleet & Engineering Services, SWFRS.

Firefighter welfare has been built into the design. Each vehicle includes toileting facilities, a microwave and a fridge, allowing crews working long hours to rest and recover while remaining close to the incident ground.

The project also highlights the work of SWFRS’s fleet and engineering department, which maintains more than 480 emergency vehicles across the Service. Each vehicle receives four services a year to ensure operational readiness.

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