Surplus fire and rescue equipment will be on the way to the city of Odesa in Ukraine following approval from the Avon Fire Authority.
A FireAid convoy | Photo courtesy of Avon Fire & Rescue Service
Two fire engines, a hovercraft, and vital rescue equipment to help firefighters in the Ukrainian city will be delivered in collaboration with specialist aid charity, Fire Aid and International Development.
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.
Cllr Paul Goggin, Chair of Avon Fire Authority, said: “This donation reflects the compassion and solidarity of our community.
“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.
The 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 local firefighters will drive the fire engines to Odesa, and Cllr Goggin will join them on the journey.
Cllr Goggin added: “Travelling with our crews to deliver this equipment is a privilege.
“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.
Chief Fire Officer Matt Cook said: “I’m incredibly proud of our team.
“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.
Cllr Tom Renhard, who supported the donation, said: “This is what international friendship looks like. 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.
