Fire and Rescue NSW deploys strike teams to South Coast flood zone - VIDEO - NSW
Published: 29 Nov 2023 02:01pm
Fire and Rescue NSW (FRNSW) today is deploying five 'in-water' strike teams to flood-impacted communities on the state's South Coast, where heavy rainfall is forecast in areas already saturated overnight.
The teams, comprising 20 highly trained firefighters and two team leaders, will be working in Ulladulla, Batemans Bay, Moruya, Bega and Eden, where they will support the NSW State Emergency Service response to any potential flood emergency.
For the first time, FRNSW is deploying specially trained on-call and regional firefighters to work alongside metropolitan-based firefighters in the flood zones, with many of them living in, or close to, the towns they will be supporting.
They are among 200 newly trained FRNSW In-Water Rescue technicians, funded as part of a $34.3 million NSW Government package.
This has increased the total capability to 350 fully qualified flood rescue personnel within FRNSW.
This new 'hub' resourcing model ensures normal FRNSW coverage in the area is maintained and all fire stations remain online, while also allowing highly-trained 'in-water' technicians, with local knowledge, to more quickly respond to the flood situation.
It delivers on a key recommendation of the 2022 NSW Flood Inquiry.
Those being activated today are attached to the Ulladulla, Batemans Bay, Moruya, Wollongong, Nowra, Liverpool and Hurstville fire stations, alongside experts in operational support roles.
Seven vehicles and five loads of flood rescue gear are also being mobilised.
The strike teams will be on standby to conduct flood rescues tonight, when it is expected there will be a heightened level of activity.
FRNSW Commissioner, Jeremy Fewtrell, said the affected communities should feel reassured by the presence of our 'in-water' technicians.
"These firefighters are among the best trained and most highly skilled when it comes to 'in-water' rescues, and they're ready to support locals at their time of need," Commissioner Fewtrell said.
"We've learned from past flood events and adapted our approach to make sure the best resources and support is available when it's most needed."
If you require flood assistance, contact the NSW SES on 132 500, or in an emergency call triple-zero (000).
EDITOR'S NOTE: Video footage of FRNSW 'in-water' technicians being briefed and preparing for deployment is available here - https://vimeo.com/889325483/2658daf527 [external link]
Updated: 29 Nov 2023 02:06pm
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]