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Firefighters in Auckland have been forced to slow their response to calls because of inferior tyres fitted on some fire engines, according to the New Zealand Professional Firefighters Union.
Auckland Local represents professional firefighters across Auckland, and its secretary, John Waldow, said that the inferior tyres have a maximum speed rating of just 100km/h and no safety speed margin, unlike factory-fitted ones that can handle speeds up to 130km/h.
Fire and Emergency NZ Response Driving Policy allows for firefighters responding to emergencies to reach up to 105km/hr. However, the union said it received legal opinion from police laying out the consequences for firefighters who exceed the maximum speed rating of the tyres.
This has prompted firefighters to drive at slower speeds – even on open roads – to avoid being prosecuted.
“This will result in our delayed arrival to people’s emergencies. Any delay in the response of fire appliances or emergency vehicles could ultimately lead to a loss of life,” said Waldow.
