Roughly 50 volunteers were out today to assist Dublin Fire Brigade and the HSE by clearing ice from surfaces at the entrances of fire stations and hospitals.

Members from all areas of Dublin Civil Defence turned out in force and worked over a number of hours to make surfaces safer for the emergency services.

Today also saw the arrival of the new Hagglunds BV206 unit, which arrived before schedule to be made available to Dublin Fire Brigade and other emergency services that require it.

Originally intended for use in flooding due to it's amphibious abilities and large cabin to take 6-10 persons or a number of casualties, the Hagglunds is ideal for working in icy conditions also, with its rubber and Kevlar tracks giving amazing grip.

One of the 4x4 ambulances and crew made available to DFB
crew: Volunteer firefighters Andrew Connolly and Gareth Daniels

The Hagglunds BV206, ex-Swedish Military. Many thanks to Frank Day Motors for doing such a great job on the paint and livery in such a short time!

An Iveco all terrain rescue unit

Fox 1, Based in Malahide, is ideal with it's 4x4 abilities

 

Many thanks to the Defence Forces in McKee Barracks for assisting us in transporting the Hagglunds into the city centre. Although the BV206 can drive on ordinary roads it is not ideal over long distances.

Dublin Civil Defence will continue to have 4x4 ambulances available for use by the emergency services over the next few days.