9 February 2012

Aerial training for the ESA

| johnboy
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simon and a helicopter

Simon Corbell is letting us know he has been out to observe air observation training for our emergency workers:

The training which occurs every five years sees workers carry out simulated exercises in preparation of fires and other possible hazards.

“Having the ability of using aircraft during incidents like bushfires is a critical component for information to assist in fire fighting operations,” Mr Corbell said.

“Today, air observers from the ESA together with personnel from across NSW have gone through a series of drills in a simulated setting to ensure they’re skills are continually equipped with the latest incident intelligence gathering required to assist in emergencies.

“This approach is used to assist in fire fighting, identifying areas at risk as well as other hazards such as flood inundation, storm damage in communities and recording lightning strikes in rugged terrain.”

The air observer recertification was developed by members of the ACT Rural Fire Service (ACTRFS) with specialist support from other areas of ESA. Helicopters at the Hume Helicopter Base and aeroplanes at the Canberra Airport were used in a series of practical simulated exercises along set routes.

“I am delighted to see this air observer course used for the first time, and that ESA workers continue to be among the best trained to deal with emergencies in Australia and around the world,” Mr Corbell said.

[Photo courtesy of Simon Corbell’s office]

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