Heroes To The Rescue
Firefighters’ heroic attempt across flood waters to help sick man, receive public applaud on social media
Monday 29 January 2024 | 14:37
Firefighters Sikeli Nasilasila and Thomas Logaivau believe team work is vital when it comes to executing any assigment as first responders.
The Lautoka-based National Fire Authority firefighters have become overnight heroes when their photos, carrying Salesh Vijay Prasad, an amputee across the flooded River last week at Qalitu to reach hospital, went viral on social media
A running call seeking assistance was received at 4.40pm on Thursday and the on-duty team responded with two fire trucks and six officers.
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On arrival at the scene at 5.30pm, the officers noticed an Irish crossing underwater.
They managed to cross the bridge and transferred the man across the flooded crossing using the two-man carry technique.
The man was transported to hospital safely by the NFA rescue team.
Mr Nasilasila, 35, of Viseisei Vuda said rescuing people during adverse weather was part of the work they do.
“There were other officers who carried him from his home and passed the man to us and then we carried him across the flooded waters,” he said,
“It is also important for us to reach out to people who need help, especially in difficult situations like that.”
“When the Fire Service Act 1994 was amended in 2009, functions such as Hazardous Materials Rescue (HAZMAT), Road Accident Rescue (RAR), Urban Search and Rescue (USAR), Natural Disaster Rescue, Flood and Swift Water Rescue as well as Emergency Ambulance Services were added to the NFA’s list of roles and responsibilities,” he said.
“Our people are well trained in these rescue situations. Rest assured our firefighters will provide the best of their skillset.
“In times of your emergency needs, we are and will be always ready.”
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