The Kempsey Fire and Rescue had an opportunity to further their training last night with a realistic simulation exercise.
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The NSW Fire and Rescue semi-trailer rolled into town to allow local firefighters the chance to participate in breathing apparatus re-qualification.
The realistic mobile training facility, complete with smoke which creates low visibility, travels around the state to train Fire and Rescue crews on how to prepare for a fire and refresh their skills.
Station Commander Tony Hackenberg said the training exercise allows the crew to ensure they use their breathing apparatus correctly.
“It’s a simulated environment and there’s no danger, but it really allows us to ensure we’re doing everything correctly,” he said.
“It refreshes our technique and skills.”
The semi-trailer is divided into two rooms that resemble a residential unit. Fire and Rescue crews are tasked with entering the room, which is filled with smoke and the visibility is low, to rescue dummies that represent real victims of a house fire.
NSW Fire and Rescue instructor Barry Coates said the simulator is a great tool because of it’s diversity.
“We can set up the inside of the trailer different ways and place the dummies in different positions to make it harder for the crews. There are some hidden nooks in there that they might not check, or they might miss,” he said.
“The visibility is very low in there when the smoke is pumped in, they can’t see anything. So it does make it difficult, but prepares them for when they find themselves in this type of situation.”
Mr Coates said the semi is much more than a training opportunity.
“It’s also a fully functional response vehicle. If there’s a fire or emergency while we’re in an area, we can respond in this vehicle,” Mr Coates said.
Mr Hackenberg said the Kempsey Fire and Rescue Crew get a lot out of these types of exercises.
“We had a great turn out last night and everyone benefited from the training,” he said.
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