Storm Desmond: Notts firefighters help with rescue efforts in Cumbria

Image of floods in Cumbria Photo: Kendal Chris @CMH1967

Nottinghamshire firefighters and officers have travelled to Cumbria to help with rescue efforts after severe flooding caused by Storm Desmond.

As part of a nationwide response at least 12 Nottinghamshire Fire and Rescue service personell have travelled to the north west.

It has now been declared a major incident

Station Manager Kevin Cleary, who has coordinated Nottingham’s deployment to Cumbria, said: “Following a COBRA meeting today the situation in Cumbria has been declared a major incident and it is in line with this that NFRS has deployed two crews, plus two officers, to the scene.

“Both teams have received a high level of training for this kind of work and will be doing all they can to assist our colleagues in Cumbria in keeping people safe from harm and reducing the risks associated with major flooding.”

A Flood Rescue Tactical Advisor and a Welfare Officer have joined the fire-fighters as well as dozens of fire and rescue crews from across the country.

Thousands of houses have been without power because of the floods, and rescue teams have had to evacuate people from flooded houses.

Photo: Kendal Chris @CMH1967
Photo by Kendal Chris @CMH1967. Before and after of river levels

Nottinghamshire is one of many fire and rescue services nationally that form part of the Flood Rescue Asset Register, whereby specialist resources and trained crews can be called on to assist at incidents of national importance or which cause significant disruption or risk.

The service’s specially trained boat rescue team, currently based at Tuxford and Highfields fire stations, and its Enhanced Logistic Support Team from Mansfield can be deployed to anywhere in the country to provide support to incidents.

David Cameron Tweets that he will be visiting badly hit areas in Cumbria

David Cameron Tweets that he will be visiting badly hit areas in Cumbria

It is anticipated they will remain in Cumbria until Tuesday, when a relief crew will travel from Nottinghamshire to take over.

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