Last Sunday, the Eudunda CFS Brigade received a brand new 24P Rescue Appliance, rolled out as part of 10 trucks being delivered to branches across the state.
Complete with a bunch of new equipment and safety features, the new appliance replaces an older truck that is around 20 years old, a welcome addition in the year of the Brigade's 75th anniversary.
Eudunda CFS Captain, Thomas Prior, told The Leader that the volunteers had already been receiving training on how to operate the new appliance, getting up to speed on all of the new gear that will make their lives a lot easier and safer when out on the job.
"Not only is it obviously a new truck with new appliances…new bits and pieces, equipment and stuff like that, but it's very much a set up for the rescue side (for) both a road crash rescue and also attending structure fires with breathing apparatus," Thomas said.
"So, all that specialised gear is stored on that new appliance and it just fits in a lot better than our old one when we were just trying to find spots and retrofit a 20-year-old appliance."
Thomas explained that a lot of tools have also arrived on board, like drills, ratchets and handles which weren't previously
supplied.
In addition, the new 24P Rescue Appliance also has a new ground monitor to hold a hose in place on the ground, a different light flashing sequence for improved visibility, electric cut off and chainsaws, a ventilation fan and a hygiene station.
Despite approaching the end of the current fire danger season, Thomas said that receiving the truck now will give the crew ample opportunity to become fully familiar with the new appliance's features before the season rolls around again.
Thomas said the truck has already attended an incident on Truro Road earlier in the week.
