Fife Fire and Rescue Service have carried out an intensive programme of training across the service to ensure an efficient and professional response at any flooding event within Fife.

Firefighters at Dunfermline, Kirkcaldy, Lochgelly, Methil, Cupar and St.Andrews have received Flood First Response training delivered locally, and all personnel at these stations have been issued with personal issue, personal protective equipment to ensure that they can perform basic wading rescues, and other related activities within water at major flooding events.

Station Manager Tom Fox stated: "Flooding and other inland water related incidents are becoming increasingly more common within Fife over recent years. We now have firefighters equipped with specialised skills and equipment that enable us to carry out any necessary rescues in the most effective and safe manner.

"Gone are the days when firefighters have responded to flooding incidents dressed in protective clothing designed only for structural fires. Our firefighters are now fully trained and equipped to the highest standards, to rescue and support our communities in the event of urban flooding that can have the potential to be dangerous and traumatic.

"The provision of this response has been made possible due to the commitment and hard work of all firefighters at the six stations who have attended specialist courses over the last 9 months.

"Flood responders will be available to respond anywhere within Fife, and indeed to any other region of Scotland or UK if requested by other fire and rescue services."

The introduction of flood response is enhanced by the specialised water rescue response already being provided from Glenrothes Fire Station personnel who can perform swimming rescues, ice and mud rescues, and also a powerboat response if required.

This specialist water rescue response is now being delivered by all Scottish fire and rescue services who are working in partnership to support each other if required at local, regional or national emergencies.

 

Posted February 24th, 2012 at 1210 by Andrew. Comment by emailing: andrew.lynch@pavpub.com