WEST Wodonga will be better protected after upgrades to the McKoy Street CFA brigade.
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Five volunteer firefighters yesterday learnt how to use a second-hand truck the brigade received this week.
“It’s a huge upgrade on the truck we’ve had,” brigade captain Ross Coyle said.
“There’s been an incredible increase in demand — from 30 calls a year in 2002 to 280 now.”
The new truck — known as a type-3 medium pumper — has seen service at Horsham. The truck it replaces was a model from the mid-1980s.
“This truck will be used for structure fires and urban calls, rather than bushfires,” Mr Coyle said.
“We’re at our busiest time of year for house fires so it’s very timely.”
The brigade also received two breathing devices valued at $10,000, paid for by donations from businesses.
The devices provide clean air supply by filtering out toxic smoke.
Mr Coyle said he encouraged those who wished to volunteer ahead of the fire season to phone 0419 494 419.
