Fire-fighters win re-enforcement, to get 100 new fire engines

By JPOST.COM STAFF
fireman 298 courtesy (photo credit: Aviv Mesed)
fireman 298 courtesy
(photo credit: Aviv Mesed)
The Friends of Israeli Fire Fighters (FIF) is recruiting dozens of quick response fire engines (ROTEM), considered a dynamic fire engine. This new type of vehicle is one of the most sophisticated in the world today, and is especially designed to operate in rough terrain or in areas hit by rockets. During the second Lebanon War, 20 of these fire engines operated on the northern border in fire-fighting and rescue missions. All of these vehicles were donated by the FIF, and all were manufactured in the United States. These new fire engines can cost up to half a million dollars each. In view of their successful performance during the war, it was decided to manufacture these engines in Israel. Ten additional fire engines were recently assembled in Hatachof factory, and are stationed in fire fighting stations in the north and south of Israel. FIF leaders reported that 100 fire engines will be donated by the end of this year, and approximately 50 of them will be assembled in Israel. The vehicles are intended mainly for the northern border and for the border area near Gaza, but some will also be stationed in other, heavily populated areas of Israel. "Friends of Israel Firefighters" (FIF) is a non-profit organization, established in March 2003, by a group of concerned citizens. The organization's aim is to increase awareness and appreciation for the outstanding services provided Israel's firefighters and to raise funds for the purchase of urgently needed equipment and facilities for Israel 's Fire & Rescue Services. The FIF's executive committee and board of directors includes senior figures known for their experience and contribution in the political and security fields in Israel. Awareness of the importance of fire-fighting forces has grown tremendously in the US since 9/11.