Blantyre City gets fire engine
The Cumbria Fire and Rescue Service in the United Kingdom has donated a fire fighting engine to Blantyre City Council Fire Brigade.
The Volvo FL6 Fire Appliance, complete with a fire hose, branches and an assortment of firefighter personal protective equipment, is in the process of being transported to Malawi.
In a statement posted on the fire service’s website, Cumbria Fire and Rescue Service group manager Owen McCarney said the donation reflects the service’s commitment to international collaboration and supporting communities in need.
“We hope that this donation will significantly improve emergency response services in Malawi, helping to protect lives and property. Cumbria Fire and Rescue Service is honoured to make a difference beyond our national borders,” he said.
Speaking in an interview yesterday, Blantyre City Council chief executive officer Dennis Chinseu said the vehicle will take the number of their fire vehicles to four.
“This donation will go a long way in ensuring that we are able to respond to fire and other emergencies,” he said.
The Volvo had reached the end of its life within the Cumbria Fire and Rescue Service following the introduction of six new Scania fire appliances to Cumbria last year.
However, Cumbria Police, Fire and Crime commissioner David Allen said the engine “still has plenty of life left in it yet”.
Cumbria has enjoyed links with Malawi over recent years with learning visits taking place between the respective fire services.
