Volunteer firies sharpen their skills at annual exercise

NSW RFS Region East Manager Chief Superintendent John Parnaby said that the Service's annual field exercises are essential for strengthening crews' skills, preparedness and coordination.

 "This exercise allows Rural Fire Service members from across NSW to share their expertise, experiences and knowledge whilst experiencing first-hand the wide-range of capabilities that is gained from being in the Service," he said.

Chief Superintendent John Parnaby said the weekend will see crews put through their paces in a variety of real-life scenarios.

"The training this weekend will feature typical incidents that the NSW RFS attends, and explore the most effective strategies of managing and responding to emergency situations.

"This includes tackling different types of fires such as building and bush fires, being the first on scene at a motor vehicle accident, working safely at heights, search and rescue techniques as well as a simulated air crash disaster."

"This exercise will particularly highlight the diverse nature of our work and the many skills required to be an RFS volunteer.

"The participants will also get the opportunity to have their proficiency formally assessed enabling them to develop their existing skills and qualifications and further benefit their brigades and local communities.

"Throughout the weekend we'll be including representatives from other agencies such as NSW Police and National Parks and Wildlife Service to add authenticity as fighting fires and other emergency operations involve a coordinated effort from a range of organisations," said Chief Superintendent Parnaby.

The exercise is being run across Saturday and Sunday at various locations within Cataract Scout Park, Appin.