New firefighting equipment launched in Oxfordshire

Firefighters across Oxfordshire are now benefitting from new life-preserving breathing apparatus as part of Oxfordshire County Council’s Fire and Rescue Service’s commitment to ensuring crews have the best protection when attending emergencies.  

The previous range of breathing equipment has already been worn by Oxfordshire firefighters more than 300 times in the last year, mainly in smoke filled environments.

The new equipment consists of improved face masks, body-shaped shoulder straps and hip belt, backplate and oxygen cylinders.

Gabby Heycock, Oxfordshire County Council Fire and Rescue Service’s Area Manager for Response and Resilience, said: “This week’s launch of the new breathing apparatus is the culmination of months of hard work involving our local crews. We took part in a rigorous and thorough practical evaluation of the equipment in the sweltering heat in June and are delighted with the results.

“The safety of every firefighter is always a top priority, and our frontline teams have undertaken training, familiarisation and kit fitting before rolling it out for continued use.”

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