Electricity company takes to the water
A nine-strong team from Western Power Distribution’s (WPD’s) Boston depot have taken to the wet stuff in a bid to strengthen the electricity distribution company’s emergency response to floods.
All have gained the Rescue 3 Europe standard as both swiftwater rescue technicians and swiftwater and flood rescue boat operators.
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Hide AdThe qualifications mean that in the event of a flood the WPD team can carry out vital tasks including safety inspections and network switching without having to rely on the emergency services.
Boston area planner Stuart Holland said: “The first part of our training involved learning how to read fast-flowing water and techniques to rescue ourselves; this included having to rescue one another from fast-flowing rivers and other turbulent waters.
“The second part of the training was about learning how to handle a boat in both swift moving and still water.”
“To keep our certification we are required to carry out training sessions bi-annually, so residents may see us out and about on local waterways.”
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Hide AdIn addition, WPD has invested in water rescue boats, a rescue sled and a SupaCat amphibious craft, all of which are based in Boston.
The company also has a number of pump tender units (ex-fire engines) stationed around its distribution area.