Tasmania Parks and Wildlife Service (PWS) has bolstered its firefighting capabilities with the welcome addition of 34 new slip-on units - designed in-house by our very own firefighters.
With enhanced storage capacity, ergonomic layout, and improved safety, these next-generation mobile firefighting units are an integral part of Tasmania's fleet of smaller, rapid-attack vehicles, ensuring our firefighters are better equipped to respond swiftly and safely.
Units have already been deployed across the state with one allocated to each field centre, in time for the summer fire season, at locations including Huonville, Arthur River, St Helens, and Flinders Island.
These dedicated units transform standard PWS 4WDs into rapid-response vehicles. Compared to earlier fibreglass and 15 year old aluminium slip-on tanks, these upgraded units offer a range of enhancements designed to improve safety, usability, and operational efficiency:
Each unit features:
A 450-litre water tank
Electric hose reel for safer, easier operation
A high-pressure Honda/Davey twin-impeller pump
Ground-level access to all components, eliminating the need to climb onto the ute tray.
Lockable lockers with sliding drawers for secure gear and fuel
Simplified plumbing layout for easier maintenance
Enhanced LED lighting to assistnight operations
Cabin spray system for occupant protection during unlikely burn-over events
The brand new slip-on firefighting units are ready to deploy for the upcoming fire season
The slip-on units are also designed for quick installation and removal using forklifts or gantries, allowing vehicles to be repurposed when not in emergency response.
Slip-on tanks have proven to be one of the most efficient and economical tools available to PWS firefighters in previous fire seasons and with enhanced user and safety features, these new units give our firefighters the best chance at protecting our natural, physical and cultural assets as well as significantly contributing to the statewide fuel reduction program.
Learn more about how we
prepare for the bushfire season ahead.
Comparison of the old design versus the new design slip-on units