VID literally translates as a "vehicle for diverse interventions". Each of BSPP's 74 fire stations has at least one or two of these small utilities.
As well as being used as general runabouts on non urgent duties, these are dispatched to all kinds of minor incidents.
The SOP is to load up the cargo compartment with any items which may be thought useful, depending on the nature of the reported incident, and head out with one or two firefighters on board.
This approach avoids tying up a full crew and a pump appliance at a minor incident, and avoids dilution of emergency coverage.
Many other countries have adopted a similar approach, as have some UK fire services in recent years.
As well as being used as general runabouts on non urgent duties, these are dispatched to all kinds of minor incidents.
The SOP is to load up the cargo compartment with any items which may be thought useful, depending on the nature of the reported incident, and head out with one or two firefighters on board.
This approach avoids tying up a full crew and a pump appliance at a minor incident, and avoids dilution of emergency coverage.
Many other countries have adopted a similar approach, as have some UK fire services in recent years.
Added by Rob Johnson on 21 February 2019.