"The idea is that should a brigade attend an incident where a child is involved the comfort teddy will be given to them to keep," volunteer Red Cross co-ordinator and Carrick firefighter Kim Brundle-Lawrence said.

"Hopefully this will assist in lessen- ing any trauma being experienced by the child."

Each teddy was inspected by Bev Jackson, of Mowbray, who with a group of neighbours attached Red Cross tags to the teddies' chests.

Mrs Jackson checked that the teddies were filled with new filling and did not have loose eyes or pieces that could be swallowed.

Because the teddies are given to keep the Red Cross says it needs more knitters and wool donations.

The teddies will be handed to each brigade in July. The concept of comfort teddies started in NSW 10 years ago and yesterday's presentation is the first for Tasmania.

¤Anyone who can donate wool or can knit for the Red Cross should telephone 6331 2522.