FIRE Magazine
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credit – Avon Fire & Rescue Service
Avon Fire Authority has approved the donation of two fire engines, a hovercraft, and vital rescue equipment to help firefighters in Odesa, Ukraine.
The donation will support the State Emergency Service of Ukraine, whose teams have suffered devastating losses during the ongoing war. Many fire stations and vehicles have been destroyed, and countless firefighters have been injured or sadly lost their lives.
Delivered in collaboration with specialist aid charity, Fire Aid and International Development, this equipment will help strengthen their ability to respond to emergencies and save lives.
“This donation reflects the compassion and solidarity of our community,” said Cllr Paul Goggin, Chair of Avon Fire Authority. “It’s a powerful example of how UK fire services can help those facing unimaginable hardship.”
The donation includes surplus equipment from Avon Fire & Rescue Service (AF&RS), two fire engines, a hovercraft, personal protective gear, water rescue tools, and road traffic collision equipment. These items are part of AF&RS’s retiring fleet and equipment that are no longer required or fit for purpose locally, meaning the donation will have no impact on frontline services or existing commitments.
Later this year, a team of AF&RS firefighters will drive the fire engines to Odesa, and Cllr Goggin will join them on the journey.
“Travelling with our crews to deliver this equipment is a privilege,” said Cllr Goggin. “This isn’t just about vehicles – it’s about people. We want the people of Ukraine to know they’re not alone.”
Fire Aid and International Development, which has coordinated several successful missions to Ukraine, will handle logistics and customs, ensuring everything reaches the right hands safely and efficiently.
“I’m incredibly proud of our team,” said Chief Fire Officer Matt Cook. “With Fire Aid’s support, we’re making sure this life-saving equipment gets to where it’s needed most.”
The effort was also inspired by the Bristol Ukrainian Community, who helped build a friendship link between Bristol and Odesa in 2024 and requested support for emergency services. Ukraine Aid and Welfare (UAW) have been instrumental in building relationships between Bristol and Odesa.
“This is what international friendship looks like,” added Cllr Tom Renhard, who supported the donation. “Real help, real impact, right when it’s needed.”
The donation comes at no cost to local taxpayers. Transport and delivery costs will be covered through charitable donations and support from Odesa.