Merseyside Fire and Rescue Service has taken delivery of a high-tech Mercedes-Benz Sprinter conversion that has turned into a mobile control centre, capable of simultaneously capturing, co-ordinating and integrating three separate layers of multi-agency communications in real time.

In addition, it can effectively apply its own wireless mesh network around an entire fireground – as well as hosting real time links with Gold and Silver command centres, external media channels, a free-sat television system and even a Heli-Tele option.

This unit is automatically deployed to any incident requiring more than three appliances and carries its own crew of two.

It is based on a 5-tonne Mercedes Sprinter and has been converted to provide the technological and communications support required for almost every eventuality. It has its own satellite dish, onboard generator, IT workstations, communications equipment and a large awning, which can be combined with a 40″ external screen to provide a large, weatherproof briefing area alongside the van.

Additional onboard equipment includes laptop computers, remote cameras and portable power packs and the van itself has a full array of blue lights, sirens and an onboard PA system.

The Incident Management Unit, as the van is known, was converted by emergency services specialist MacNeillie, in partnership with Merseyside’s ICT provider, Telent.

The IMU contains two IT workstations and a host of other equipment

The IMU is based on a 5-tonne, XLWB Mercedes Sprinter van