MUNDARING State Emergency Services (SES) unit has already responded to more than 100 calls for support since the start of the year and is on the lookout for new members.

The unit has had calls ranging from storm damage, supporting fire crews battling large fires, as well as searches for  missing persons.

“As local volunteers we are committed to help each other and you, our community. We always welcome more members and encourage you to contact us and find out what we do and how you can fit into SES,” Mundaring SES manager Rodney Potter said.

“There are many different roles within SES and always opportunities to specialise in particular roles. As part of DFES, we offer free accredited training courses to ensure we work well and safely.

“Additionally, we schedule several social activities through the year to build community, celebrate and reward members.”

Storm damage usually involves the removal of trees or branches from roofs and shoring up of walls and roof sections as well as covering holes in roofs.

“The weeks following a storm can result in the fall of branches that have weakened during the storm. It is therefore important for householders to check the trees around their property and arrange removal of potentially dangerous branches or trees. Not just after a storm, but as a regular home safety activity,” Mr Potter said.

An all-year activity for the SES crew, is also to support fire crews battling fires locally and regionally.

SES members have clocked up many kilometres driving fire crews to and from fire control areas, as well as assisting the Department of Fire and Emergency Services (DFES) communications at the fire control areas.

“The small bus we have for transporting crews is air-conditioned and comfortable, making it an ideal support vehicle for  fire crews,” Mr Potter said.

“We also assist police with local, metropolitan and regional searches for people lost in bushlands or urban areas. While most searches result in positive outcomes, some remain unresolved. It is therefore sometimes challenging being involved with searches, physically as well as mentally.”

These activities tend to be local or within the Perth metropolitan area, however several crew members have also been deployed to support recovery from summer storms in the north west of Western Australia as well as the recent devastating floods in New South Wales.

If you are interested in becoming part of the Mundaring SES please contact Mundaring SES manager Rodney Potter on 0474 583 813 to find out more or come for a Wednesday tryout evening.