Ref. 28502-26FIREFIGHTERS in Swindon are to start using new breathing equipment that will help to save lives.
The apparatus, to be introduced across Wiltshire in March, can hold more compressed air than existing equipment.
It will enable firefighters to stay in smoky environments 15 minutes longer than they can at present 51 minutes instead of 36.
Martin Lloyd, watch officer at Westlea fire station, said : "The extra minutes could be crucial and means we could be saving more lives.
"We could be going further into a building or staying longer.
"The new apparatus is more comfortable and more durable in arduous conditions."
Manufactured by Drager, it has been tested by Wiltshire Fire Brigade for several months now.
On Monday firefighters from Westlea were out training with the new breathing apparatus at the De Vere Hotel in West Swindon. Firefighters use the hotel two or three times a year.
Wiltshire Fire Brigade is spending £300,000 on 200 breathing apparatus sets, 500 cylinders and associated equipment.
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