WINNIPEG, April 2 /CNW/ - Today The Co-operators presented the Winnipeg
Fire Paramedic Service (WFPS) Station 12 with a state-of-the-art Bullard T4
thermal imaging device as part of the department's measures to continually
modernize its equipment and increase citizen and firefighter safety.
    As fire services everywhere seek to integrate new technologies into their
firefighting strategies, this revolutionary tool will be increasingly used to
protect the public. The thermal imaging camera, as it is usually called, helps
firefighters identify pockets of intense heat in burning buildings - be it
heat from fire, electrical current, or the heat signature of individuals or
animals.
    "The use of thermal imaging cameras greatly enhances our ability to
identify sources of heat, and to perform our fire suppression and search and
rescue operations," said Acting Fire and Paramedic Chief Jim Brennan. "The use
of this technology on the front lines helps us to better protect the citizens
of Winnipeg. We are very grateful for this most generous donation by The
Co-operators."
    With the assistance of Co-operators agents Terry Newman, Don Forsyth,
Joan Temple, Barb McEachern and Larry Billows, as well as funding from The
Co-operators district and corporate offices, resources were made available to
WFPS to purchase the thermal imaging device. As The Co-operators District
Manager Reg Howard explains, "Winnipeg's firefighters have made enormous
sacrifices for the people of this city. They keep us safe every day, and now
we're helping to keep them safe. It's a good day for Winnipeg."
    Staying Alive Inc., a fire safety program started by Winnipeg firefighter
Shane Ferguson, also contributed to the purchase of this sophisticated device,
which revolutionizes the way fires are fought both in other jurisdictions and
in Winnipeg itself. The presentation of this new thermal imaging camera adds
to those already in use by WFPS.

    About WFPS:

    WFPS is responsible for providing fire suppression services and fire
prevention programs, for handling hazardous materials incidents, and for the
evacuation of people when necessary. WFPS is also responsible for pre-hospital
emergency paramedical care and transport of sick and injured people in
Winnipeg, and provides specialized rescue services such as water and trench
rescue, extrication for vehicle and industrial accidents, and high angle
rescue. The Service is also responsible for enforcing the Manitoba Fire Code
within the city of Winnipeg.

    About The Co-operators:

    Based in Guelph, Ontario, The Co-operators is a group of Canadian
companies offering home, auto, life, group, commercial and farm insurance, as
well as investment products and property development. With assets of more than
$6.5 billion, The Co-operators is owned by a group of Canadian co-operatives,
credit unions and like-minded organizations. It is well known for its
community involvement, and is listed among the 50 Best Employers in Canada.

For further information: Leonard Sharman, The Co-operators,
1-877-795-7272, ext. 2707; City of Winnipeg Media Inquiry Line, (204)
986-6000