The Firefly Austin Champ Fire Appliance & Light Rescue Vehicle

This conversion of the civilian Champs was based on International Civil Aviation Organization and the National Protection Association requirements.

The equipment consisted of a Coventry Climax Featherweight Centrifugal Pump delivering up to 450 Gal p/m at 60lbs psi or 425 G p/m at 100lbs psi working on open water suction lift of 10’. Optional extra were a 60 gal tank fitted inside the Champ and a 200 gal tank on a trailer. A First Aid FOGNOZL was also supplied to hose reel to create spray together with a comprehensive tool kit for rescue work. Electrics were 12v linked to a 63ah battery.

Other options were spotlights and flashing siren lights, extra lockers and tow-hook. Gross weight was 4640lb [2099kg], U/L weight was 3470lb [1574kg], height 5’ 11” [1.80m] and its max speed was 60mph.

Alternative forms of Firefly Champ Fire/Rescue Applications were:

1. Dry Chemical Unit: two x 150lb dry powder cylinders with hoses. Mechanical foam generator and foam tank can be added to work with 200 G tanker trailer.
2. Chlorobromomethane [CB] Unit: 17 G CB cylinder with hoses. 200 G trailer can be added.
3. Forcible Entry Unit/Light Rescue Unit: 5kva generator driven by PTO through two x V belts to supply power for metal cutters, lights etc.. Extensive tool kit as standard but others can be added.