Vehicles seized in fly-tipping offences set to help save lives
They're being donated to West Midlands Fire Service for training purposes.
Vehicles seized in fly-tipping offences are set to be put to life-saving use by West Midlands Fire Service.
Birmingham City Council and the fire service have a new partnership to donate the cars and vans to help with training.
The council have so far seized 64 vehicles from the criminal activity, with seven being given to West Midlands Fire Service.
It's to benefit training in helping to save lives during a serious road collision.
Councillor Majid Mahmood, Cabinet Member for Environment at Birmingham City Council, said: “I am delighted we have been able to support one of our emergency services in this way. Previously, vehicles that only have scrap value have been crushed – so it is really pleasing we have been able to find a practical use that will help keep our communities safe.
“Of course, this also sends out a very clear message to environmental criminals who think it is OK to blight our communities. We actively investigate dumped rubbish, will not hesitate to take court action and, if you are found guilty, you could lose your vehicle.”
Mathew Ward, Station Commander at Sutton Coldfield and Wednesbury fire stations, added: “We are grateful to Birmingham City Council for donating half a dozen vehicles to West Midlands Fire Service for crew training.
“There’s rarely a day when our firefighters don’t respond to a collision, or train for when they need to. It’s vital that they stay up to speed with the latest vehicle designs, rescue techniques and equipment, so they’re ready to respond swiftly, safely and effectively.”
“Sutton Coldfield is one of our three designated Technical Rescue stations in the West Midlands. We regularly attend major traffic incidents, but also work on jobs that require additional equipment and training outside the remit of standard firefighting. This can include water rescue, rope rescue, response to terrorist threats and more.”