Western Australian firefighters will soon receive $8.7 million in funding for a crew-cab protection program.

The money will extend the program beyond the initial four-year funding commitment, which has already seen over 660 vehicles fitted with equipment to protect them if they are trapped by fire.

The safety measures include external water deluge systems, in-cab air breathing systems and safeguards for vital equipment such as vehicle wiring, water, and fuel lines.

It covers burnover blankets and almost 1,000 radiant heat shields for fire appliances and support vehicles across WA.

Vehicles are also being equipped with Automated Vehicle Location (AVL) systems for real-time tracking and a distress alarm.

“I am proud that this government has overseen the completion of the initial rollout of the crew-can protection program and that we have expanded this program to deliver for our emergency services,” said Acting Emergency Services Minister Bill Johnston.

“These measures help to protect our firefighters when they’re out on the fireground helping to protect their local communities.

“The safety of our firefighters is of paramount concern, and while I hope no firefighter ever needs to use any of this equipment, it’s in place for their protection.

“The risks firefighters face out in the field are real and potentially deadly, and by mitigating some of these dangers, we have created a safer working environment for them leading into the next bushfire season.”