Emergency service crews gear up

SES volunteers from the Pakenham unit visited Parliament House recently to claim their share of about $1 million worth of special protective clothing and equipment.
The volunteers joined Police and Emergency Services Minister Tim Holding and Gembrook MP Tammy Lobato to oversee the largest ever distribution of personal protective gear.
The Pakenham volunteers received new pairs of overalls, wet weather gear and boots.
“More than 3000 pairs of overalls, 2900 sets of wet weather gear and 1264 pairs of boots are being issued around Victoria in the next few months,” Mr Holding said.
“High quality personal protective clothing and equipment is an essential part of the SES occupational health and safety program.
“This massive upgrade will ensure volunteers from across the state are appropriately equipped to carry out their vital work.”
Ms Lobato said the Pakenham volunteers would now be better protected when responding to local emergencies.
“SES volunteers respond to floods, storms and road accidents, and they provide critical support to other emergency service organisations,” she said.
“Providing these SES volunteers with new overalls, boots and wet weather gear will make responding to these incidents a safer and more comfortable experience.”