Thank the SES by wearing orange for WOW Day

The Department of Fire and Emergency Services is encouraging the Western Australian community to join in the celebrations for Wear Orange Wednesday (WOW Day) on Wednesday 10 May.

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Fire and Emergency Services Commissioner Wayne Gregson said wearing a splash of orange for the annual national event is a simple way to show support for State Emergency Service (SES) volunteers.

“Across the State there are more than 2,000 volunteers who give up their own time to respond to storms, cyclones, floods, and search and rescue missions,” Commissioner Gregson said.

“They are integral to our emergency preparedness and response – including supporting our efforts during major bushfires.”

Within the last year WA’s dedicated SES volunteers have spent in excess of 17,500 hours responding to more than 570 incidents, helping to keep the community safe during a range of natural disasters and emergencies.

“They respond to incidents at all hours of the day and night, sometimes missing important family occasions in order to provide assistance,” Commissioner Gregson said.

“SES volunteers also commit to many hours of training, maintaining their skills and ensuring they are as prepared as possible for when an emergency occurs.

“I encourage everyone to wear something orange, hold a morning or afternoon tea, or simply take a minute to show your appreciation for our SES volunteers.”

This year’s WOW Day will see iconic WA locations, including Elizabeth Quay and Council House, lit up in brilliant orange, and the Eliza statue in the Swan River, Nedlands will be donned in orange for the occasion.

DFES and SES will also host a display and recruitment stand at Curtin University, including tours of the Forward Operating Vehicle used during large scale search operations.

For more information about WOW Day, visit www.wearorangewednesday.com.au/wa​

Media Contact: DFES Media and Corporate Communications 9225 5955.​