Operation Fire Support donates VT512,000 worth of helmets to Vanuatu Fire Service
August 22, 2024 7:30 am | Posted in Business News | Share now TwitterFacebook
The Executive Director of Operation Fire Support, Timothy Wainwright, has donated eight new structural firefighting helmets, valued at over VT512,000, to the Vanuatu Fire Service.
According to Mr. Wainwright, this is a move aimed at boosting safety and efficiency for first responders in Port Vila, and an effort to foster not only improved safety but also a profound sense of community resilience in the face of emergency challenges.
Wainwright, who has dedicated over 30 years to fire safety, was inspired to take action after witnessing the challenges faced by the Vanuatu Fire Service during his visits to Vanuatu in 2015, 2016, and 2017.
During these trips, he observed that firefighters were using outdated and unsuitable equipment, including old helmets that did not meet current safety standards.
“I felt compelled to act. These new helmets comply with the latest safety standards and provide essential all-round head and face protection. It’s crucial that our firefighters in Vanuatu have the best equipment to protect themselves and effectively carry out their duties in life-threatening situations,” said Mr. Wainwright.
The high-quality helmets, valued at AUD $800 each (VT64,000), include features such as high visibility, neck protection, full-face shields and additional drop-down eye protection for rescue operations. Wainwright said this donation not only aims to safeguard the firefighters but also to instill confidence in their professionalism and ability to protect the community during emergencies.
Looking to the future, Mr. Wainwright is not stopping at helmet donations. He envisions a comprehensive community fire improvement program in collaboration with the Vanuatu Fire Service.
“This initiative will focus on enhancing procedures, training, and resources in the Vanuatu Fire Service, as well as a separate community fire safety program, ensuring that both firefighters and the community are well-prepared for emergencies,” he said.
“We want the firefighters to know that they have a friend in Australia who cares about them and their safety. The community should also feel reassured that efforts are underway to improve fire and rescue services, and to help the community become more resilient to fires and other emergencies, making everyone safer.”
In addition to the helmet donation, Mr. Wainwright has plans for further support, including training workshops on fire prevention and emergency response, as well as exploring partnerships with local businesses to bolster public safety initiatives.
“This donation is just the beginning. Together, we can help create a safer environment for everyone in Vanuatu, and I am committed to ongoing collaboration with the Vanuatu Fire Service, the Business Community, Government and the citizens of Vanuatu to make this vision a reality,” he further stated.
Operation Fire Support is dedicated to improving fire safety in communities around the world and has previously collaborated with emergency teams in Israel and Australia.
Mr. Wainwright’s commitment to public safety, particularly in Vanuatu, marks a significant step toward ensuring better protection for both firefighters and the communities they serve.
