When a natural disaster strikes or an emergency situation arises, DFES’s State Emergency Service (SES) volunteers can be found providing a wide range of volunteer services to help the community cope from the impact a disaster. This involves providing emergency repairs on buildings, to restoration of essential services and ferrying cargo and passengers across flood waters. Helping the community to
recover by responding to natural disasters is only part of SES’ responsibility. Volunteers also carry out land search working alongside WA Police, cliff, aerial and cave rescues. SES volunteers can also assist with air search observation. In remote areas where Fire and Rescue Service (FRS) is unavailable, SES volunteers are responsible for the difficult task of extricating people from vehicles involved in road crash incidents. There are nearly 2,000 SES volunteers in WA. Many work diligently behind the scenes as radio or computer operators, in administration or incident control, planning and logistics. SES volunteers also actively promote safety education, prevention and preparation measures in visits to service groups, senior centres and homes, local business and schools. SES volunteer training includes:
First aid
Map reading and navigation
Land search techniques
Storm damage techniques
Flood boat rescue
General rescue
Radio communications
Leadership
Management
Driving vehicles for emergencies
Road crash rescue
Single rope techniques (abseiling) and vertical rescue
Observation from aircraft and supply dropping
Ground support for fire services
To learn more about the SES or how to become a volunteer contact your local SES unit, DFES’s Volunteer Recruitment information line on 1800 628 141 or visit www.ses-wa.asn.au
For SES assistance during a storm, cyclone, earthquake, flood or tsunami, please ring 132 500
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