FRNSW firefighters respond to mock bus crash scenario - Edgeworth
Published: 21 Oct 2024 11:52am
Fire and Rescue NSW (FRNSW) crews have played a leading role in a multi-agency bus crash exercise at Lake Macquarie.
Building on previous scenarios, this exercise was the largest to date involving more agencies and organisations working together to foster skill-sharing and efficiencies in a realistic environment.
The simulated bus rollover was staged at the Edgeworth depot of bus company, CDC NSW, to allow firefighters and other first responders to fine tune their capabilities in emergency vehicle rescues.
According to the weekend mock scenario, two busses collided with two cars causing a rollover with multiple casualties.
Firefighters from Morisset, Toronto and Lambton, working alongside NSW Ambulance paramedics, NSW Ambulance Aero Medical paramedics, a NSW Police Rescue crew, and VRA Rescue NSW, were taught the most efficient methods to cut open access points on the overturned bus, using hydraulic cutting equipment.
NSW Rural Fire Service (RFS) volunteers acted as injured commuters and dummies were placed in the wreckage as additional casualties.
Exercise co-ordinators kept the details of the simulated emergency from the first responders, until they arrived on scene, to maintain a realistic environment.
FRNSW Chief Superintendent, Terrence Farley, said these types of training exercises are invaluable for emergency services personnel.
“When our crews respond to real-life incidents involving buses, they immediately know what to do,” Chief Superintendent Farley said.
“Training side-by-side with ambulance and police crews provides the opportunity to better understand each other’s operating procedures, communications and equipment.
“It allows crews to formulate plans and work collaboratively to provide positive outcomes for potential patients.”
CDC NSW CEO, David Mead, said the company was pleased to provide buses for the exercises as well as access to their depot.
“This training is extremely valuable for first responders, and CDC NSW is happy to support FRNSW, to enhance and share skills in a realistic environment,” Mr Mead said.
Media note – FRNSW footage of the exercise can be obtained here: https://vimeo.com/1019302957/5235700036?share=copy [external link]
Updated: 22 Oct 2024 01:27pm
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