Kits an extra option for flood response

By Rowan Frazer

Feb 25, 2024

Lauren Smits has been delivering flood kits across the Mid Murray RFS footprint.

Additional resources to support Rural Fire Service brigades in flood water rescues have been delivered across the Mid Murray RFS Zone.

Hold tight - we’re checking permissions before loading more content

The new kits are part of a state-wide rollout and will allow brigades to support their local community better during heavy rainfall events.

Mid Murray RFS district assistant John Temlett said that while the RFS is not the primary flood rescue authority, its volunteers are sometimes first responders in such situations.

“Sometimes, the brigades are the only emergency service in the area that can reach members of the public seeking assistance,” he said.

The flood kits contain essential items to perform a land-based rescue.

It includes a rope, life jackets and helmets to quickly assist in slow-moving water.

Rescues requiring more specialist equipment will be the responsibility of the State Emergency Service, police or other relevant agencies operating in the area.

“Our brigade members have started practice with these kits, and we have had great reports,” Mr Temlett said.

“They believe the kits will be ‘an extra string to our bow’ when it comes to helping out our communities in their times of need.”