Perth and Kinross: Wildfire and Flood Response Stations
SFRS adapts to climate change and introduces specialist equipment and training
The Scottish Fire and Rescue Service (SFRS) has adapted to a rising number of climate change-related incidents by creating both wildfire and flood response stations in Perth and Kinross.
Comrie, Blairgowrie and Aberfeldy are now fully operational as Flood Response Stations and Alyth and Pitlochry have been designated as Wildfire Response Stations.
The stations are being issued with specialist equipment and training to deal with the increasing number of incidents which put “significant” demand on resources.
Storm Babet
Perthshire’s new Flood Response Stations were put to use during Storm Babet in October and provided support to Swift Water Rescue Stations. Perthshire’s Wildfire Response Stations – Alyth and Pitlochry – have been issued with specialist personal protective equipment and additional equipment/training will be allocated in due course.
SFRS senior officer for Dundee, Angus and Perth and Kinross area commander Jason Sharp said:
“The impact of climate change is predicted to intensify and we continue to see increased risk of flooding, wildfire and other severe weather incidents across Scotland.
“These types of incidents undoubtedly place a significant demand on resources and it’s imperative that our firefighters continue to have the right equipment and training to carry out their role and to maintain their own, partner and community safety.
“Within Perth and Kinross, as part of our wider wildfire strategy, Alyth and Pitlochry crews have received new wildfire PPE and will also receive additional specialist equipment and training in due course.
“Our new Flood Response stations at Comrie, Blairgowrie and Aberfeldy are now fully operational and have supported our Swift Water Rescue Teams from Perth and across Scotland during recent spate conditions.
“Our specially trained crews can be mobilised across the country to assist with areas impacted by severe weather events and we will always respond to every emergency.”