More Than Timber Forwarding: PONSSE Firefighting Equipment for Forest Operations

As wildfire activity continues to impact forestry regions across Canada, the need for practical and effective support equipment has never been greater. PONSSE Firefighting Equipment offers forestry contractors and emergency response teams a unique solution by utilizing the mobility and capability of PONSSE forwarders in demanding forest environments.

Built for Challenging Conditions

"Forest machine is the most natural and effective way to access a forest fire area. Operations in difficult terrain come as second nature to them, and they have more than enough capacity in their hydraulic system for demanding conditions," says Juha Haverinen, PONSSE Product Manager for Forwarders.

The concept was developed in cooperation with rescue authorities who identified a need for equipment capable of reaching remote wildfire locations quickly and efficiently.

"When the rescue authorities asked us if we were willing to develop this product together, we were ready right from the beginning, because rescue professionals and our customers had a clear demand for firefighting equipment," Haverinen explains.

Designed for PONSSE Forwarders

The firefighting equipment is available for PONSSE Buffalo and PONSSE Elephant forwarders equipped with a minimum PONSSE K90+ loader.

The entire system is delivered as a single package. Once connected to the machine's hydraulic system, it is ready for operation in the field.

Key features include:

• 10 m³ water tank
• Water cannon with a range of up to 47 metres
• 360-degree water cannon rotation
• Powerful onboard pump
• Wireless remote control operation
• Ability to fill from natural water sources or fire truck tanks

A Flexible and Practical Solution

One of the major advantages of the system is its versatility. When firefighting support is not required, the forwarder can continue performing productive forestry operations.

The water tank is designed to withstand the use of water mixed with firefighting chemicals and can also be used with seawater. Despite its durability, the tank remains light enough to be transported within the machine's load space.

The wireless remote control allows operators to adjust the spray direction both vertically and horizontally while also controlling the spray pattern to suit changing conditions.

Supporting Forestry Operations When It Matters Most

PONSSE Firefighting Equipment combines the mobility of a forestry forwarder with the capabilities required to support wildfire response efforts. By utilizing equipment already designed to operate in remote forests and difficult terrain, forestry contractors and emergency services gain an additional tool when conditions demand rapid action.

For more information about PONSSE Firefighting Equipment and compatible forwarder models, contact the ReadyQuip team.