AGL Loy Yang has significantly boosted its firefighting capability with the purchase of a new state-of-the-art fire truck.

The $400,000 purpose built vehicle is the first fully integrated 4x4 compressed air foam fire truck in operation in Victoria.

Steve Rieniets, AGL Loy Yang General Manager, said AGL decided to purchase the truck after exploring different technology and methods to manage coal mine fires.

“Compressed air foam systems have proven successful in fighting coal fires and we believe this truck will significantly enhance our capability to deliver a fast and determined response to mine fires," said Mr Rieniets.

“The use of compressed air foam on coal fires suppresses heat and reduces smoke while extinguishing flames, reducing the impact on both firefighters and the community.”

The truck also includes a number of unique features which will increase the safety of personnel including:

  • State of the art compressed air foam system
  • In cabin monitor with remote control
  • In cabin breathing apparatus
  • Advanced crew safety systems.
  • These features provide firefighters with the flexibility to apply compressed air foam from inside the cabin via remote control, and air supply masks stored in the cabin can be used when operating in high carbon monoxide areas.”

Traralgon South and Churchill CFA participated in training and commissioning of the new truck at AGL Loy Yang.

“Our crews can now be more confident when attending fires in coal mines, especially after seeing how well the compressed air foam can be applied using the tanker and its effect on cooling and suppression,” said Peter Lockwood, CFA Operations Officer.

"CFA will continue working with the power industry to ensure we are as well prepared as we can be all year round and particularly during the summer fire season,” said Mr Lockwood.

About AGL
 AGL is one of Australia's leading integrated energy companies and is the largest ASX listed owner, operator and developer of renewable energy generation in the country. Drawing on over 175 years of experience, AGL operates retail and merchant energy businesses, power generation assets and an upstream gas portfolio. AGL has one of Australia's largest retail energy and dual fuel customer bases. AGL has a diverse power generation portfolio including base, peaking and intermediate generation plants, spread across traditional thermal generation as well as renewable sources including hydro, wind, landfill gas and biomass. AGL is taking action toward creating a sustainable energy future for investors, communities and customers.