A 24-ton vehicle capable of breaking into burning buildings is among several new pieces of equipment that Qatar’s Civil Defence department has acquired to boost its firefighting capabilities in purchases worth QR102 million ($US28 million).
The new QR7 million vehicle from Al Hamad Trading comes equipped with an infrared camera that can be used by firefighters to locate people trapped inside a blaze through thick smoke. The Ministry of Interior said it is designed to access areas that cannot be reached by emergency responders.
Croatian firm Dok-Ing has supplied the armored MVF-5 vehicle, which resembles a red bulldozer, affixed with a massive claw. The company says the design of the vehicle is based on equipment used to clear minefields, and is intended to tackle serious fires in environments deemed too hazardous for firefighters. The vehicle is equipped with water and foam tanks, and is guided by a remote control that allows the operator to remain at a safe distance from the fire.
Other new orders for Qatar Civil Defence included new personal protective jackets and suits for firefighters.
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