New seasonal fire crew start training

Released 01/09/2016

The ACT Government’s newest seasonal fire crew recruits have started their training this week in preparation for the upcoming fire season. They come from a wide range of backgrounds including Croatia, Germany, Holland, Iran and Zambia.

“The 13 new and 11 returning seasonal fire crew members will receive extensive training in basic fire fighting, four-wheel-drive, using chainsaws, advanced first aid, working with chemicals for weed control and general on-the-job duties,” Neil Cooper, Manager Fire Forests and Roads said.

“The new recruits will also take part in fire suppression training as part of a scheduled prescribed burn in the ACT. This is an opportunity for them to manage a fire in a controlled setting, under the guidance of experienced fire fighters.

“The new seasonal fire crew will strengthen the ACT’s rural fire fighting capacity with fit and qualified staff and will provide an additional resource to help manage the upcoming fire season and keep the ACT safe.

“ACT Parks and Conservation provides over 150 fully trained permanent fire fighters. The additional fire crew will assist the ACT Rural Fire Service in fire suppression, providing an increased capacity for rapid deployment to fires in remote areas across the ACT and surrounding region.

“Fire crews also assist with fuel reduction, fuel hazard assessment and other fire management activities on land managed by the ACT Government.  

“ACT Parks and Conservation’s existing fire crews have also taken part in a series of training days to make sure all of our highly trained and experienced staff are prepared for the start of the fire season. These workshops cover a range of practical activities where fire fighters have the opportunity to hone their skills and prepare for worst case scenarios in a controlled environment.”

For more information on bushfire management visit www.environment.act.gov.au

Editor’s note: There is a photo/footage opportunity of seasonal fire fighters undertaking training at Stromlo depot, Cotter Road, at 10 am today.

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