First-of-its-Kind Off-Road Fire Engine to Boost Wildfire Response in Hampshire

A new specialist off-road fire engine is set to strengthen wildfire response capabilities.

The purpose-built vehicle will go operational next month at Rushmoor Fire Station, replacing the station’s previous wildfire unit. It has been specifically designed to tackle incidents on challenging terrain, including large grassland and heathland fires, which have been increasing in recent years.

The appliance was unveiled at the Emergency Services Show in Birmingham last year and has since undergone training exercises to prepare firefighters for its deployment.

Last year, crews from north Hampshire responded to significant wildfires in areas including Blackwater and Yateley Common, as well as supporting neighbouring fire and rescue services during periods of heightened demand.

The new vehicle is designed to improve off-road capability, enabling crews to respond effectively in rough, snowy or icy conditions. Crewed by two firefighters, it carries a 3,000-litre water tank, two high-pressure hose reels and can pump directly from open water sources.

It also features a front and rear-mounted drenching system that can operate while the vehicle is in motion, allowing firefighters to dampen large areas of heathland more rapidly and slow the spread of fire.

Fleet Operations Manager Colin Carter said the introduction of the vehicle reflects the service’s commitment to protecting the region’s natural landscapes.

He said: “Across Hampshire and Isle of Wight we are blessed with lots of beautiful greenspaces, so it is important that we have the vehicles equipped to tackle incidents on different terrain.

“Each year we are seeing more wildfires across our areas, so it is important we look for new and innovative ways of tackling these incidents.

“Working in conjunction with Emergency One, we consulted with our crews who ride the current wildfire units, to build a brand-new user-friendly fire engine designed to help firefighters stop outdoor fires as quickly and safely as possible.”