Wednesday, 28 November 2007, 04:59 GMT
Great gadgets and gear at emergency show

As any professional emergency service worker will tell you, it you want the job done right, you've got to have the right gear.

Kit, in every possible incarnation, is the focus of the Emergency Services Show taking place at Stoneleigh Park in Coventry.

From the lowliest torch to the biggest fire engine, 150 industry suppliers come together to show off their most innovative products designed to help fire, ambulance and police do their jobs.

The fire bike

Every imaginable gadget and technological bauble is also on offer in this gear extravaganza. Here is a sampling of this year's eclectic mix.

WHO'S THE DUMMY ?

Ruth Lee Fire and Rescue Equipment is already doing a thriving business with its new obese dummy that weighs in at a hefty 28-stone and was created in response to the nation's growing girth.

But the company's dummy selection does not stop there.

The dummy

Managing Director Susan Edwards said the horse dummy - weighing between 40-100kg (88-220lb) and costing £1,000 - was put into production after requests from fire services for a mannequin to help train fire brigades to free trapped animals.

WHO'S A SAFE DOGGIE?

Still on the animal theme, Global Armour has a "K9" protective vest as part of its extensive range.

Clearly not built with the Yorkshire terrier in mind, the heavy vest only comes in one size and fits an Alsatian.

Unlike the rest of the company's range, it is not offered in camouflage or other colours, but does come with a special lead pouch.

WHO'S HUNGRY ?

Be it fire, flood or mass evacuation, emergency service personnel need to eat.

Hot Pack meals give new meaning to the term "just add water" - but this is no pot noodle.

A tiny amount of water added to the outer box creates a chemical reaction that gives you piping Lancashire hot pot or vegetable curry in a pouch in just 10 minutes without the need for fire, flame or heat of any sort.

Philip Goding from Hot Pack said when it comes to supplying emergency services, a hot meal matters.

"This is something that gives somebody a morale boost as well as a hot meal," he said of the instant dinners.

THIRSTY YOU SAY ?

Pure Hydration promises thirsty workers that they are just 15 minutes away from clean water.

Pack the Thirst Aid bag with suspect fresh water, give it a good shake and wait for the secreted iodine to work in minutes to quench your thirst.

The water purifier

The device is aimed not only at the military but also has domestic appeal after last summer's floods knocked out drinking water supplies in Gloucestershire.

REALLY THIRSTY?

Weighing in at 26 tonnes and with a capacity to hold 6,825 litres of water that can spray foam for up to 55m, the Major Foam Vehicle is normally used for airfield fire fighting.

The engine will be part of the demonstration programme at the show.

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