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 pioneers, 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.
NSW Government package
FRNSW is deploying specially trained on-call and regional firefighters to work alongside metropolitan
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.
FRNSW coverage in the area
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 mobilized.
Heightened level of activity
The strike teams will be on standby to conduct flood rescues tonight, when it is expected
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.
Best resources and support
Fewtrell added: "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 they require flood assistance, contact the NSW SES on 132 500, or in an emergency call triple-zero (000).
