SES volunteers hone disaster rescue skills

Teams from 10 metropolitan SES units will compete against each other in a series of practical scenarios including search and rescue, storm damage, casualty management, collapsed building search, sandbagging and rescues from height.

The Department of Fire and Emergency Services Metropolitan Assistant Commissioner Darren Klemm said the exercise is a great opportunity for SES volunteers to practice their skills under realistic emergency scenarios.

“These scenarios will test their team work and individual skills, which includes map reading and navigation, tarping, working at heights, first aid and land search techniques,” Assistant Commissioner Klemm said.

“Training exercises are a vital factor in keeping the community safe during an emergency, with the skills of SES volunteers needing to be practised regularly.”

“We can never predict when someone will call for help, and it is vital emergency services are ready to respond at a moment’s notice.”

“This extends to supporting West Australians and those in need interstate, with SES volunteers recently deployed to Adelaide in September to assist the community after devastating storms caused widespread damage and power outages.”

The SES teams will be judged by experienced SES volunteers, many who have previously competed interstate at National Disaster Rescue Competitions.

For more information about becoming a SES volunteer visit dfes.wa.gov.au

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Media Contact: DFES Media and Corporate Communications 9225 5955