Fire fighters in training exercise

Fire fighters from The Bays, Patonga, Pearl Beach and Killcare Rural Fire Brigade will feature in a multi-agency training exercise to be held at Mangrove Mountain on Saturday, August 26.

Coordinated by NSW Rural Fire Service, the Mangrove Mountain Operational Exercise is an event that involves rural fire brigades and other emergency services attending to a range of emergency scenarios.

The purpose is to test the operational readiness and preparation of local brigades in an environment that is as realistic as possible.

The scenarios include bush fires, house fires, motor vehicle accidents, search and rescue, long distance relay pumping and helicopter safety.

Inspector Mr Rolf Poole said: "Various emergency services will be grouped together and will be required to assess the emergency incidents they are presented with.

"They will need to coordinate their personnel, react and respond accordingly.

"Many of the scenarios will be set up with an added touch of realism to really put crews through their paces".

The exercise is an opportunity for emergency services to work together in a team environment and tests their skill levels.

Attendees include Rural Fire Brigades from Gosford, Warringah, Wyong, Lake Macquarie, Cessnock and Baulkham Hills Districts.

The Volunteer Rescue Association, the Westpac Rescue Helicopter and a NSW Rural Fire Service helicopter will also take part in the exercise.

Mr Poole said: "Specialist units from communications, breathing apparatus support and aviation support have been called in to assist with logistical requirements on the day."

Smoke will be generated from small training fires, smoke machines and flares.

For safety reasons sightseers and members of the general public should keep away from fire training areas.

Press release, August 16 Rolf Poole, NSW Rural Fire Service Gosford District