THE Warracknabeal Fire Brigade, like all other district brigades is currently preparing for the forthcoming fire danger period, now that fire restrictions are in place.

Part of this ‘readiness’ for the Warracknabeal brigade, has been reviewing the state and performance of its firefighting equipment this year.

For this reason the brigade has sought assistance in funding of and upgrading to
a thermal imaging camera, that the brigade purchased
many years ago from its own fundraising.

Captain Cameron Whelan said, “the brigade initially applied for funding for a new thermal camera, that was initially applied for through the Volunteer Emergency Services Equipment Program, but then this application was withdrawn following the new camera being supplied by the CFA at a significant cost of $11,445.”

The new thermal imaging camera is a valuable tool for firefighters in identifying the source or seat of fires and hot spots as well as when ‘mopping up’ and dampening down after fires have been controlled.

The camera also has a host of other features for use in ‘Hazmat’ conditions, a video and still photograph recording system and is particularly more versatile compared to its predecessor, which the brigade had bought and used for around ten years.

As an adjunct to the brigades’ new four wheel drive tanker, the brigade also sought funding to purchase and fit a new central tyre inflation system (CTIS), to enhance the tankers off road capabilities.

The brigade was also fortunate in securing a ‘Enhancing Volunteerism Grants Program’ grant of $11,605 towards the cost of a central tyre inflation system, which will provide
the brigade with better off road access to fires.

The ‘CTIS’ system is a technical and highly advanced system, that not only monitors the tanker tyre pressures, but also allows operators to lower pressures when off road and
particularly when travelling through loose and sandy conditions and can be set to
various pressure ranges for different types of ‘terrain on the go’.

The system can also be set to re-inflate the tyres when returning to firmer
conditions or back onto the road.

Captain Whelan said, “both of these systems will be most valuable to brigade members and enable the brigade to operate more efficiently. We are most appreciative of these grants that will enable our members to perform their duty to the community to the best of their ability.”

Brigade members have since undertaken comprehensive training on both systems to become familiar with their use when required.