The FRUs are equipped with heavy lifting , winching , cutting and pulling tools , floodlighting , longer-duration breathing apparatus ( vital for rescuing people from tunnels deep underground , for example ) , portable generators and other specialised equipment . FRU crews are specially trained and equipped to handle complex rescues , including those from road and rail accidents , water , mud and ice , urban search and rescue incidents such as collapsed buildings , chemical spills and difficult rescues at height . Nine of the Brigade 's fleet of FRUs were mobilised to the 7/7 bombings in 2005 and after the attacks the LFB increased its number of FRUs from 10 ( including one reserve ) to 16 . In 2014 this was reduced to 14 , to meet budget reductions
7/7 bombings
7 July 2005 London bombings
London Fire Brigade appliances