Firefighting Kei Truck
Fujifilm X100V with 5% diffusion filter
ISO 1600 for 1/250 sec. at ƒ/2.0
Astia/Soft film simulation
Kei Truck at Yokohama's Children Fire Prevention Event
Location: Yokohamabashi, Minami Ward, Yokohama, Japan
Timestamp: 19:07 on December 19, 2023
Odori-Koen is a long, narrow park subdivided into several sections, including the Water Plaza and Stone Plaza. This grassy, tree-dotted space is home to numerous sculptures by renowned artists like Henry Moore. Stretching approximately 1.18 km (3,883.26 ft) in length, the park spans above the subway line between Kannai Station and Bandobashi Station in Yokohama, Japan.
Near the southwestern end of the park, close to Bandobashi Station, lies the Yokohamabashi Shotengai (covered shopping street). Adjacent to the shotengai's entrance, within Odori-Koen park, I encountered a small group of volunteer firefighters concluding an event aimed at promoting public awareness of fire prevention and firefighting activities for children.
In the photo, a kei truck, a compact Japanese vehicle converted into a small fire truck, caught my eye. Specifically designed to navigate the narrow streets still present in urban neighborhoods throughout Japan, these vehicles play a crucial role in firefighting efforts.
Kei trucks belong to an ultra-small class of Japanese vehicles that must meet specific criteria:
Maximum length: 3.4 m (134 in)
Maximum width: 1.48 m (58 in)
Maximum height: 2.0 m (79 in)
Maximum engine displacement: 660 cc (40.26 cubic inches)
Maximum weight: 700 kg (1,500 lb)
The primary purpose of these converted kei trucks is to easily access fires on narrow streets, a common occurrence in urban neighborhoods developed before modern zoning laws ensured wider streets for emergency vehicles.
During my conversation with the leading volunteer firefighter hosting the event, I discovered that Yokohama city had requested the event to provide children with hands-on experience with the fire truck, basic instructions on using fire extinguishers and firefighting safety gear, and fundamental fire prevention measures. This event occurs about 3 or 4 times a year for several consecutive days.
In the shot, a placard reads “ちびっこ消防士,” translating to “Kiddy Firefighter,” underscoring the child-focused nature of the event. Silver helmets and coats, available in various sizes, allow elementary school children to try them on and pose for photos with the firefighters.
Odori-Koen is spacious enough to host multiple events simultaneously. Throughout the year, the park hosts various events, art shows, flea markets, and community festivals. If you find yourself in Yokohama’s Kannai district, be sure to explore Odori-Koen – you might chance upon a delightful event to enjoy.
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