Firefighters in Dorset are set to work with a lifesaving charity to help rescue the public from floods. 

Dorset and Wiltshire Fire and Rescue Service (DWFRS) has signed an agreement with Surf Life Saving GB (SLSGB), Wessex Flood Rescue Unit, to work together in the event of flooding, and during other water rescues.

SLSGB are a team of trained volunteers who support fire crews and other emergency services at incidents. They helped to rescue stranded people during the Cumbrian floods in 2015. 

DWFRS and Wessex Flood Rescue Unit (WFRU), a registered charity, signed a memorandum of understanding which formally sets out how they will work and train together. Under the agreement, WFRU will support fire crews when called on, operating under their guidance at incidents that could include rescuing residents from flooded homes.

The unit was founded in response to the damage caused by flooding in winter 2014, a time when volunteers with water safety and lifesaving skills were needed in the area.

Dorset area commander Craig Baker said: “Dorset & Wiltshire Fire and Rescue Service is equipped and trained to carry out water rescues and this agreement will give them even more support when they need it. 

“Wessex Flood Rescue have worked with the fire service at previous incidents and I’m pleased they have formalised this agreement to work and train together to further improve public safety.”

David Lane of Surf Life Saving GB, Wessex Flood Rescue Unit, said: “Our crews are trained to national standards for search and rescue. 

“Water rescue is part of our skill set and we have specialist equipment and vehicles for this role. This is a service we offer 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.”

SLSGB was created over 60 years ago, and also works with RNLI beach lifeguards to provide joint lifeguard service and beach patrols along Dorset’s coast. LSGB is the awarding body for the highest standard of beach lifeguard qualification. 

For more information about how to stay safe in and around the water visit www.dwfire.org.uk.