New rapid response vehicles to tackle large-scale fuel and chemical spills

Devon will be getting its first specialised pollution protection vehicle next week (22 October).

The vehicle, known as an Environmental Protection Unit (EPU), is specially equipped to handle a number of environmental emergencies such as fuel and chemical spills.

It is the first of four Mercedes Sprinter vehicles to be unveiled by Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue service and The Environment Agency.

The vehicles are part of a national project to supply fire and rescue services with the equipment necessary to protect the UK from large-scale pollution incidents.

The Environmental Agency’s Bruce McGlashan said: “These vehicles have already proved their worth in other parts of the country. They are especially useful where a rapid response is required and can be very cost effective. In one incident, a spillage of  20,000 litres of fuel from an overturned tanker was safely dealt with using equipment costing just £20.”

The EPUs will be based in stations in Newton Abbot, Taunton, South Molton and North Tawton.

A spokesman for the Fire service Amy Macdonald said: “These new units will allow us to greatly improve our ability to protect the environment and further enhance our partnership with the Environment Agency.

“This initiative is an excellent example of two agencies working together for the benefit of both the public and the environment.”