ALCESTER fire station has become the base for the county’s Environmental Protection Unit.
Warwickshire Fire and Rescue Service has funded the new adapted van which replaces a previous vehicle in partnership with the Environment Agency.
Crews will be able use a range of special equipment needed to prevent further damage to the environment and wildlife when incidents such as chemical or hazardous waste spillages happen.
The equipment includes inflatable drain blockers, large oil and chemical booms, hazardous substance pumps and hook and arm machinery.
Rob Moyney, Warwickshire Fire and Rescue Service’s assistant chief fire officer, said: “We are pleased to welcome the EPU unit as an addition to our fleet.
“By working in close partnership with the Environment Agency, we are hoping to increase our levels of resilience and reduce environmental impact when dealing with fuel spillages or chemical incidents.”
Gary Tarling from the Environment Agency added: “These vehicles have already proved their worth in other parts of the country and are crucial where a rapid response is required.
“They are equipped with all the kit needed to deal with a wide variety of pollution incidents, so the fire service having this available to them on scene, means they can prevent pollutants from entering and causing an impact on the environment.”
