UK aid for Ukraine from Cheshire Fire & Rescue

Two more fire engines from Cheshire Fire and Rescue Service (CFRS) have this morning left to join a third convoy of UK aid to Ukraine.

They are being taken by a team of five firefighters and a mechanic who have volunteered to make the seven-day round trip. 

More than 75 members of staff volunteered to deliver the vehicles, along with hundreds of pieces of surplus firefighting equipment, including hose reels, helmets and other personal, protective equipment (PPE) to the Polish State Fire Service, whose staff will then transfer the convoy on to Ukraine.  

The equipment will be used to support firefighters, emergency services and volunteers who are battling together on the front line, often using old or worn equipment. The have been dealing daily with fires and other emergencies to  save lives, people and property since the war started in February.

The fire engine doors bear the CFRS logo with the words ‘Supporting Ukraine’. Inside the driver’s cabs are stickers which read: “In solidarity and support of the people of Ukraine, from Cheshire Fire and Rescue Service”. 

Alex Waller, CFRS Deputy Chief Fire Officer said: “We are proud to provide more aid to support Ukrainian firefighters, they need equipment and vehicles so they can serve communities and save lives.  Our thoughts remain with all of the Ukrainian firefighters who are protecting their communities in the most difficult of circumstances, many have died in the line of duty, we want to help in any way we can.”

UK charity Fire Aid and International Development (Fire Aid) and the NFCC have already coordinated and delivered donations of more that 5,000 items of fire and rescue equipment and PPE. In March around 22 vehicles, related kit and equipment were delivered in convoy to Ukraine and in April a further 21 vehicles and kit were successfully delivered.

Cheshire Fire Authority continually invests in new fire engines, specialist vehicles and keeps its equipment as up-to-date as possible. Chair of Cheshire Fire Authority Cllr Bob Rudd said: “When we heard of the appeal we were only too pleased to be able to help our colleagues in Ukraine during what is truly a difficult time. We had a number of vehicles and equipment no longer in operational use so they will now be put to good effect supporting Ukrainian firefighters who are protecting their communities. On behalf of Cheshire Fire Authority I would like to send the people in Ukraine our very best wishes.”