Plain Finish to Save Kent i1,800
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A SAVING of about £1,800 in the t1 purchase of fire appliances during the next two or three years is expected to be gained by Kent Fire Brigade because of the adoption of plain aluminium exterior body panels in preference to the traditional red-painted finish. Embossed aluminium is easily and cheaply cleaned and the cleansing material used prevents corrosion. There will, of course, be no repainting costs.
Last week one of the new machines with embossed aluminium finish, was displayed at Rootes' showrooms in Maidstone. It was a B-type water tender based on a Commer 5-ton chassis with cab accommodation for a crew of six. This vehicle had bodywork by Hampshire Car Bodies, Ltd., Totton, Southampton, as did a ladder-pump appliance with a matt aluminium finish.
This vehicle has been developed in Kent as a substitute for the orthodox pump escape. Based on a Commer 5ton chassis. it has a 350-500 g.p.m. pump and 100-gallon water tank. It has two hose reels which carry 180 ft. of tubing consisting of 60 ft. lengths connected by hermaphrodite couplings.
88 The brigade have also designed their own hose-laying lorry. This is a modified Commer 7-tonner with dropsided body. The vehicle carries 6,000 ft. of 34-in, rubber-lined hose stowed in two compartments. Between them is a gangway for stowing miscellaneous equipment.
This type of body enables the sides to be lowered wholly or in part, facilitating complete air circulation through the hose while the appliance is in the station. Lockers are provided for ancillary equipment. including ramps, suction crutches and adaptors.
A K-type water tender was also displayed. Basically this is a B-type tender with gallows for carrying a 45-ft. alloy ladder.
LOST MONEY—FARES LOWERED A LTHOUGH Isle of Man Road Sertl. vices, Ltd.. incurred a loss last year, they have reduced return fares between the main towns by 6d. and 3d., depending on distance. By this means, the company hope to encourage travel over longer distances on the island.