WMFS joins tidal surge response

Specialist teams from West Midlands Fire Service are supporting the emergency response to the potential East Coast tidal surge.

Two of their National Flood Advisors are providing strategic expertise for both the planning and possible emergency phase of the operation. They have also mobilised a seven-strong boat team from their Technical Rescue Unit in preparation for coastal flooding from a possible tidal surge.

WMFS Area Commander Ben Brook said: “Our thoughts are with everyone affected by these conditions, and all of our colleagues and agencies involved.

“We are committed and proud to be able to support regional and national deployments with our highly-skilled, professional staff.

“We hope that the impact of any surge is limited and that normality is restored quickly.”

The deployment of national teams and resilience assets to the East Coast is being coordinated by the Chief Fire Officers’ Association under the National Co-ordination and Advisory Framework.

Assets sent to the area include fire and rescue services’ boats, tactical advisers, flood rescue teams, high volume pumps and mobile command units.