Rescue crews fine tune skills in mock car crash

Fire and Rescue NSW (FRNSW) crews recently played a leading role in a multi-agency car crash exercise at Doyalson.

The simulated crash was staged to allow firefighters and NSW Ambulance paramedics to work together to fine tune their skills in emergency vehicle rescues.

The mock scenario involved the collision of two cars, causing a rollover, with multiple patients requiring medical attention.

Firefighters from Doyalson practised vehicle stabilisation and rescue techniques, cut open access points using hydraulic cutting equipment and extricate dummy patients.

FRNSW worked with NSW Ambulance paramedics to treat the mock casualties with multiple injuries and medical issues, including a cardiac arrest.

NSW Ambulance communications personnel provided guidance to ensure that the simulation was as realistic as possible. 

Member for Swansea, Yasmin Catley said this training was timely as we entered a busy time of the year on NSW roads.

“Unfortunately, we can see an increase in the road crashes over the summer period,” she said.

“Multi-agency exercises like these mean our first responders can make split-second decisions and work seamlessly together when confronted by the real scenario.

“Our first responders do an incredible job supporting the community, and we can’t thank them enough for their invaluable work.”

FRNSW Chief Superintendent, Terrence Farley, said these types of training exercises were invaluable.

“When our crews respond to a real-life car crash, they immediately know what to do,” he said.

“Training side-by-side with ambulance crews provides the opportunity to better understand each other’s operating procedures, communications and equipment.

“It allows crews to formulate plans and work collaboratively to provide positive outcomes for potential patients.”