DROMANA and Langwarrin CFA brigades are among the first in Australia to receive cutting-edge, battery operated road rescue equipment.
The three new tools include a cutter, spreader and hydraulic ram. They are battery operated and don’t require an external power source as well as being waterproof allowing greater access to road crash victims, including in drains and waterways.
The tools costing $214,000 were funded by the Transport Accident Commission and the CFA.
The two brigades are among the CFA’s 21 Road Crash Rescue Principal Providers across the state with specialised equipment to perform rescues.
Last year the CFA responded to 4290 vehicle accidents across the state, with 170 requiring help from a rescue crew with about 80 people having to be cut from their cars.
CFA Chief Officer Jason Heffernan said: “Our firefighters attend thousands of motor vehicle accidents each year so it’s important we have the most up-to-date equipment.
“These new cutting-edge, battery-operated tools will boost our capability and give our firefighters the best chance at saving community members trapped in vehicles.”
The road rescue equipment comes as CFA recognises National Road Safety Week which honours those lost on our roads and raises awareness of road safety. Officer Heffernan said the campaign asks us to “pledge to drive so others survive” by behaving safely and responsibly on our roads.
“Road trauma incidents not only impact our communities, they also deeply impact our firefighters and other emergency services personnel,” he said.
“Many road crashes can be avoided. Every Victorian needs to play their part in ensuring they are vigilant and safe on our roads.
“Let’s help reduce Victoria’s road toll by looking out for each other on the roads – your life and your loved ones’ lives depend on it.”
Road users are encouraged to take the pledge online at roadsafetyweek.com.au