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Norfolk Fire and Rescue Service has fitted 30 of its older fire engines with a special trap to filter out harmful emissions and black smoke. All new additions to the fleet already have these filters but now the older appliances are also more environmentally-friendly, thanks to funding from the government’s Energy Saving Trust and a successful bid for European money by Norfolk County Council and Norwich City Council*.
Chris Shutt, Fleet Manager for Norfolk Fire and Rescue Service, said this was great news for the county: “Not only have we reduced the engines’ impact on the environment but we have also improved health and safety. Engines have to be left running at accident sites, which often causes extra discomfort for victims and rescuers as people inhale the fumes. This will no longer be the case as the traps will filter out these emissions.”
It is hoped that this clean-up operation, which is being led by Chris Shutt from Norfolk Fire and Rescue Service in collaboration with Norfolk County Council’s Environment and Waste team, will be an example that businesses will want to follow.
Ian Roe, Business Coordinator for Environment and Waste at Norfolk County Council, said: “We hope to use the experience of the fire service to explain to other businesses how they too can get funding to fit similar equipment to their vehicles. There are many benefits for businesses – not only will it reduce their impact on the environment but it also entitles them to a road tax reduction of up to £500 over two years.”
Ian Monson, Cabinet member for Environment and Waste, said: “This is an excellent opportunity for businesses and local authorities alike to improve their environmental performance while saving money on transport costs at the same time.”
For further information
Martin Barsby, Communications Officer, Norfolk Fire Service, on 01603-819759, mobile 07919 492313 or martin.barsby@fire.norfolk.gov.uk or Melanie Dye, Communications Officer, Planning and Transportation, on 01603-224222 or melanie.dye@norfolk.gov.uk
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