Delivered by North-East Dealer Bell Truck and Van, the long-bodied, V6-engined van is based on a 5.0-tonne Sprinter 519 CDI and was converted for command and control operations by West Midlands specialist Macneillie.
The van is also fitted with cutting-edge communications technology that can be used by up to five personnel.
Chief Fire Officer Alex Bennett said: ‘This custom-built vehicle will allow us to deliver our services in a more co-ordinated and professional manner and mean we are better able to protect our communities across the county at a time of increased risk from floods and other natural events. The Incident Support Unit represents a significant financial investment but given that we expect to run it for at least 10 years, I have no doubt that it will prove to be money very well spent.’
He continued: ‘Past experience has given us complete confidence in the Mercedes-Benz 4×4 chassis, which means we can operate anywhere across a county that includes some very challenging terrain.’
Northumberland Fire & Rescue Service also operates four other all-wheel drive Mercedes-Benz vans – three are assigned to its Swift Water Rescue teams and carry inflatable boats, while the fourth is a Specialist Rescue Unit and equipped with heavy-duty cutting gear, including shears and saws, as well as stabilisation tools.
