On 11 September, a large number of brigades from the Mount Macedon Group and surrounding areas participated in a motor vehicle accident (MVA) awareness training exercise.
The training was organised by 4th Deputy Group Officer (DGO) Laurie Lovell from the Hesket-Kerrie Fire Brigade and it was held on the Woodend-Hesket Football Netball Club grounds. Also supporting the training exercise were representatives from Victoria Police, Woodend SES, Ambulance Victoria and Gisborne CFA’s Field Operations Vehicle and Gas Flare-Off team.
The aim of the exercise was to promote efficient and safe practice at MVA incidents, and to increase communication between the various emergency services that may attend. CFA crews from Hesket-Kerrie, Woodend, Macedon, Lancefield, Pastoria, Carlsruhe, Newham, Mt Macedon, Gisborne and Riddells Creek along with the other emergency agencies participated in various MVA simulations.
One of the key points practiced was the safe positioning of tankers to block the road from other vehicles. This ‘fend off’ position is crucial for protecting crews and evidence at the accident scene, whilst ensuring ease of access for other emergency vehicles into and out of the ‘inner circle’ of the incident.
Crews also had to deal with a distressed member of the public, courtesy of some very convincing acting by one CFA member.
Constructive feedback was given to crews by 4th DGO Lovell and local Highway Patrol Sergeant Geoff Neil following each simulation.
CFA Brigades and other emergency agencies often work together in real-life MVA incidents, and this training exercise allowed attendees to clarify roles, support and learn from each other and debrief together at the end of the exercise. 4th DGO Lovell said, “The communication between these agencies was very good and the end result of the exercise was excellent”.
For further information on this training exercise, contact 4th DGO Laurie Lovell on 0419 005 185.
Article Courtesy of Naomi McCraw
Author: District 2 News