The Times of India      08.09.2014

 NMMC to give some fire brigades Rs 1.5cr upgrade

Navi Mumbai: To minimize risks and ensure safety of its firefighters, the Navi Mumbai Municipal Corporation (NMMC) will soon procure advanced fire fighting equipment.

During the civic general body meeting on Saturday, administrative approval was sought to buy cooling vests, rope launchers and portable self-oscillating monitor sets. The estimated cost has been pegged at around Rs 1.54 crore.

"Firemen risk their lives while conducting rescue operations. There are regular innovations made in ensuring safety of those dousing fire. Few of these gears are to be procured for all the four fire stations and their staff," said chief fire officer Vijay Rane.

These are in addition to the demand made by the department for adding to the fire proximity suit worn by firefighters while attending calls.

"The cooling vest is an essential gear because it will enable firemen to handle soaring temperatures. The rope launcher will be useful while rescuing a person stuck in water and the portable self-oscillating monitor uses advanced technology to douse fire and is ideal for unmanned operations," said a source from the office.