Rural Firefighting News

with Tony Belton

Fire service needs new recruits

The Christmas period saw many brigades in the Northern Rivers area being called out to numerous road accidents, some with tragic consequences. The role of rural brigades in this situation is generally a support role, with fire cover being provided. Many of our volunteers are trained in first aid and also assist ambulance and police officers if required.

It is worth noting though, that at times if the location is remote, the brigade may be first on scene and not only cover fire, but also casualty assistance may be necessary.

Early morning on Boxing Day, one local rural brigade assisted ambulance officers in moving a patient with chest pains from a house to the waiting ambulance.

Brigades have also recently attended a number of small grass and scrub fires, so it is a timely reminder to be careful. The recent rains can lull you into a false sense of security. The dead grasses and fuels are still standing amongst the green vegetation. So be extra careful with camp fires/BBQ's while on holidays, ensuring you comply with regulations and make enquiries if unsure. Always have sufficient water on hand and never leave a fire unattended.

Typically, around this time of year our area is impacted by storms, and the aftermath of storms also gets your local rural fire brigades out!

There are often a lot of trees across the road as well as power lines and because our members have various skills such as chainsaw operation, traffic control and first aid, we are often called upon to help. Also we are often the first, 'on the scene' because of how local we are! Let's face it, we are people in our own community, and you can't get much more local than that.

On that note, I urge anyone whose thought about joining the Rural Fire Service to make that thought a reality. You'll meet an interesting and diverse bunch of people who love life and care about their community. You will also pick up some very useful skills and become part of a dynamic team.

We are always on the lookout for new members. Look in the phone book under Rural Fire Brigades. Call and find out how to join.

Also check out the Rural Fire Service website at www.bushfire.nsw.gov.au or contact your local Fire Control Centre listed in the phone book under Rural Fire Service.