A hi-tech fire engine which has CCTV to help combat anti-social behaviour towards firefighters starts operating in Medway on Wednesday.

The vehicle, which cost £192,000 and replaces an older engine at Medway fire station, is the first of its kind for Kent Fire and Rescue Service.

If it is successful, similar engines might be brought in across the county.

Over the past year, KFRS reported 11 incidents of verbal or physical abuse against its crews, and although the number is relatively low compared to other fire and rescue services, it is hoped the CCTV will deter anti-social behaviour.

It will also be used to record incidents at fire sites.

Steve Demetriou, KFRS assistant director of operations, said: “We will not tolerate any abuse against our crews as they carry out life-saving work.

“I hope the cameras will be used more for training purposes and recording how we tackle fires than for collecting evidence of violent or abusive behaviour.

Trailblazers

Jim Ramsden, Medway station manager, said: “With the addition of CCTV on the appliance it will mean our firefighters are leading the way with new technology that will not only further protect the community, but also KFRS staff.”

As well as the CCTV, the engine features the latest line in firefighting and safety equipment, including the Compressed Air Foam system that allows crews to make a large quantity of wet or dry foam to fight fires.

The foam sticks to the material that is on fire and is quickly absorbed, suppressing and cooling fires faster than traditional techniques.

It also has Positive Pressure Ventilation fans to drive out heat, smoke, gases and other products of combustion from burning buildings.