Cornwall Fire & Rescue Service Newsdesk

at 03/03/2010 09:38

Bude based company bott, the leading manufacturer of workplace and in-vehicle storage solutions, has joined forces with fellow Cornish company, Primetech, to develop two new mobile incident command units for Cornwall Fire and Rescue Service (CFRS).

Cornwall Fire and Rescue Service has invested in the incident command units to expand its fleet of specialist vehicles. The units were handed over at bott's state-of-the-art production site in Bude. The Mercedes Sprinter vans were supplied by City West Commercials Ltd., based at Mercedes Benz of Truro.

The array of onboard technology, specified and installed into the units, includes; weather-proof scene lighting; an innovative external LCD television and two power generators, as well as emergency lighting, sirens and public announcement equipment. Bott has also tailor-made durable, in-vehicle workspaces to accommodate four operatives, with the facility for an officer to oversee the operation.

Working in partnership with one of bott¡¦s core specialist suppliers Primetech, a leading provider of mobile satellite and secure wi-fi technology, custom built, self-seeking satellite systems have also been installed. The systems will allow Cornwall Fire and Rescue Service personnel to gain internet access and establish vital communication to and from operational headquarters and command points ¡V even in the most hostile environments.

Cornwall Fire and Rescue Service Chief Fire Officer, Des Tidbury, said: "I am delighted that CFRS is taking delivery of these new high tech vehicles. They offer the very best cutting edge integrated satellite communications systems for our firefighters who are regularly deployed in difficult and dangerous conditions in remote areas. Without doubt these new vehicles will greatly assist our incident commanders to effectively manage emergency situations ensuring the safety of our firefighters and the public."

Kevin Woodward, managing director at bott's specialist vehicle enhancement division said: "We are very privileged to be working with other local businesses, bringing together our specialist knowledge and expertise to provide a solution for the region¡¦s emergency service. Our original-thinking approach and comprehensive project management has allowed us to integrate durable in-vehicle workspace equipment and storage, with the latest technology. Because of the way the units are designed and built, updated technology can be incorporated easily ¡V providing a long term investment for Cornwall Fire and Rescue Service."

Henry Walker, director of Primetech, explains: "Cornwall Fire and Rescue Service is up against some very specific, challenging demands in this county dictated by the weather, the terrain and the remoteness of some areas. We have worked closely alongside bott to incorporate our package of the latest mobile satellite technology for when mobility and rapid deployment capability are key operational requirements."

Cllr Lance Kennedy, Cornwall Council cabinet member for Stronger Communities, said: "These two new state of the art mobile incident command units represent a significant investment in firefighter and public safety. They have been designed to meet the rigorous challenges faced by fire crews in the most difficult of situations and are an example of our commitment to building and maintaining an excellent Fire and Rescue Service in Cornwall. I am also delighted that these vehicles are a result of the work of locally based companies who have shown yet again, that here in Cornwall we have the expertise to be world leaders."

Bott provides a range of standard racking, shelving and storage solutions as well as bespoke, turnkey solutions for highly efficient, safe storage. The company also offers specialist vehicle conversions for emergency and security services and specific trades and industry sectors.

For further information on bott's range of in-vehicle storage products, telephone 01530 410600 or visit www.bott-group.com

For further information on Primetech's mobile satellite and secure wi-fi technology, telephone 08453 455 734 or visit www.primetech.co.uk

For information on Cornwall Fire and Rescue Service please visit the website at www.cornwall.gov.uk/fire

Photo caption (right to left)
Fred Whitmarsh (Mercedes Benz, Truro ¡V City West Commercials)
Henry Walker (Director ¡V Primetech UK Ltd)
James Dale (bott Ltd)
Clive Woodward (Group Managing Director ¡V bott Ltd)
Des Tidbury (Chief Fire Officer ¡V Cornwall FRS)
Mike Clayton (Engineering & Procurement Officer (Cornwall FRS)
Graham Maltby (Commercial Director ¡V Fire Vehicles & Emergency Response Equip, Firebuy Ltd)

About Bott
Bott is the only UK manufacturer of workshop and in-vehicle storage solutions. The company has a dedicated and skilled workforce of more than 300 employees across three manufacturing sites. In addition to its product portfolio, bott offers a wide selection of services including design consultancy, project planning and management, delivery and installation, providing customers with fully integrated solutions.

About Primetech
Primetech is a leading provider of mobile satellite and secure wi-fi technology that provides voice, video and data communications services in situations where mobility and rapid deployment capabilities are key operational requirements. Now in its 12th year of business, Primetech is proud to align itself with industry leading manufacturers, vehicle conversion specialists, satellite service experts and specialist engineers. As a result, it can provide project management skills, exceptional quality equipment and a professional service.


Issued on behalf of bott by Bright PR, 10 St Catherine's Court, Herbert Road, Solihull, West Midlands, B91 3QE. For further information please contact Emma Vaughan/Amanda Wilson/Kim Barnes at Bright on Tel: +44 (0) 121 711 5000 Fax: +44 (0) 121 711 5001 or Email: emma.vaughan@bright-pr.co.uk