Fire and Rescue NSW 'in-water' Strike Team deployed in case of flooding - Tumut
Published: 12 Aug 2022 03:23pm
Fire and Rescue NSW (FRNSW) has deployed a team of 'In-water' rescue technicians at Tumut in the state's Riverina, ready to deal with potential flooding in the region.
The Bureau of Meteorology has warned today is shaping as the wettest day of the current rain event that's hitting the Riverina.
The area's rivers have already reached their peaks and additional rainfall could cause minor to moderate and possibly major flooding.
The nine rescue firefighters that make up Strike Team 'Alpha' are assisting the SES-led effort to prepare for any flooding emergencies.
Minister for Emergency Services and Resilience, Minister for Flood Recovery and Member for Cootamundra Steph Cooke said FRNSW personnel do so much more than fight fires.
“Our firefighters are prepared for anything and I’m very grateful for the support they’re providing to our SES volunteers, including in the towns of Gundagai and Narrandera in my electorate of Cootamundra,” Ms Cooke said.
Team leader, Station Officer Darren Lydom, said his crew is ready to help the community any way it can.
"If the water does rise, we''ll be there to assist, whether it's people trapped in vehicles or residents stranded at home.
"We're highly trained for operating in all types of conditions and we're fully self-sufficient with our own water-craft.
"We can also assist with medical emergencies if people are unable to reach or receive help.
"The big message from FRNSW is 'if it's flooded, forget it'...if you need urgent assistance, call Triple Zero (000) and the nearest teams will respond to your emergency."
Fire crews in the Riverina are also using Remotely Piloted Aircraft Systems (RPAS) or drones to carry out reconnaissance work over sections of the Murrumbidgee River in the Wagga Wagga and Narrandera areas.
Acting Area Commander - Region South, Stewart Alexander, said footage of the river peaks will be provided to the SES to assist with potential flood responses and resource deployment.
"Our highly-trained firefighters are able to quickly send aerial images of the river conditions to the operations centres for analysis," Acting Chief Superintendent Alexander said.
"Our fire crews are also assisting the clean-up efforts in Gundagai where floodwaters have recently receded."
In addition, local crews are also poised to deal with any fire, hazardous materials or rescue incidents that might occur.
Updated: 30 Jan 2023 09:14pm
Related safety topics
It“s the law to have at least one working smoke alarm installed on every level of your home.
Details about this incident may change and should not be used as emergency information and/or advice.
For all life threatening emergencies, call Triple Zero (000)
For flood information, warnings or requests for non-life threatening assistance, call the SES on 132 500 or visit the NSW State Emergency Service website here. [external link].
For information directly relating to bushfires please call the Bush Fire Information Line on 1800 679 737 or visit the NSW Rural Fire Service Website here. [external link]
Stations nearby
146 Wynyard Street, Tumut NSW 2720
32 Mill Road, Batlow NSW 2730
28 Otway Street, Gundagai NSW 2722