FRNSW prepared for forecast heavy rain and flooding

Published: 13th July 2020

Fire and Rescue NSW (FRNSW) is prepared for anything to assist the community with heavy rain with the potential to cause flooding forecast for NSW this week.

FRNSW has mobilised two water-based flood rescue strike teams in preparation for the forecast heavy rainfall that will remain on standby on the south coast of NSW where the bulk of the forecast rain is expected.

FRNSW Commissioner Paul Baxter said the strike teams have the capability to respond to a wide range of emergencies in the event of heavy rain and flooding from water rescue to establishing safe zones to assist the NSW State Emergency Service (SES).

“Whilst the NSW SES is the combat agency for flood rescue in NSW, FRNSW provides them with support in weather emergencies where there is high demand,” Commissioner Baxter said.

“In the event of rapid onset of extreme weather, FRNSW also has the capability to conduct flood water rescue and to render the situation safe until the SES arrives.

“Currently we have two strike teams on standby on the south coast to assist the local communities if required and they will conduct flood rescue drills with local fire fighters when time allows to ensure they are fully prepared should bad weather occur.”

Commissioner Baxter said that in addition to emerging situations such as heavy rain and flooding, FRNSW remains vigilant of house fires in the current winter period and urged people to be conscious of home fire safety as cold and wet weather drives more people indoors. “FRNSW have now launched their Get Ready For Winter checklist online and are urging the community to download this and ensure their homes are prepared.”

FRNSW provides the following tips for fire safety in the home:

  • Working smoke alarms double chances of survival – regularly check your alarm is working
  • Keep looking when cooking - do not leave cooking unattended at any time
  • Know and practice your fire escape plan
  • Don’t overload power points and power boards
  • Always keep everything a metre from the heater
  • If there is a fire get out, stay out and call Triple Zero (000)

For more information on home fire safety visit https://www.fire.nsw.gov.au/page.php?id=9284