Government has signed a multi-million dollar contract for the construction of the Yallahs fire station in St. Thomas.

The signing ceremony yesterday also saw the handing over of 2 water tender trucks to the Jamaica Fire Brigade.

This was done through the Jamaica Social Investment Fund (JSIF), implemented disaster vulnerability reduction project, through funding from the World Bank.

JSIF said the contract is for work to commence on the Yallahs fire station at a cost of just under $110 m.

The new 2 story facility, to be built on west main drive, includes male and female dormitories; two engine bays; kitchen; recreation room; fitness area; control room; bathrooms; rainwater collection system; and emergency medical room.

It will also serve as a venue for conferences and training sessions for the Jamaica fire brigade.

The building will accommodate up to 40 firefighters and access will also be provided to the building for the physically challenged.

The construction of the fire station is expected to take place within 9 months.

Meantime, the 2 water tender trucks, will be used in response to an incident, conveying additional water supply.

The two trucks each have an 8,000 litres reinforced coated steel tank, and have a maximum pumping capacity of 1,000 litres per minute.

The trucks have easy maneuverability on hilly terrain and narrow roadways and come equipped with attachments and tools such as fire extinguishers, hydrant hoses and adapters, hydrant key and suction wrenches.

Commissioner of the Fire Brigade Stewart Beckford said the trucks will be sent to Manchester and Trelawny.