Photo by Michael Marston - Department of Emergency Services ...

More documents

Recommendations

Info

Case study: A dry slot in action In observations undertaken through his research, Dr Mills believes the bushfires in Canberra on January 18, 2003 are likely to have worsened due to the presence of a dry slot. As explained in the CRC article: “On that day a cold front was pushing across south-eastern Australia toward the hot air masses and gusty winds already fanning the going fires. Columns of hot air were rising up to 6km to mix with the drier air aloft. The strong vertical mixing then brought the much drier and fast-moving air rapidly to the surface. “On the fireground below, the scenario worsened to a nightmare. On 18 January in Canberra, the bushfires were responsible for the death of four people, the destruction of almost 500 homes and combined property damages of around $340 million.” The drop in humidity on the fireground in situations such as the Canberra fire detailed above mean firefighters must not only contend with hotter, fasting moving air, but also the effects of this, which include the quick drying out of fuel on the ground. These elements can contribute to a smaller bushfire turning into an explosive wildfire in a fairly short amount of time. Quick Facts What is a dry slot? A bushfire CRC article written in conjunction with Dr Graham Mills identifies a dry slot as: “columns of dry, fast moving, high-altitude air that can cause a rapid loss of humidity and very strong gusty winds if they reach the ground.” What does a dry slot do? A dry slot is likely to act as a further trigger during a bushfire by drying out fuel more quickly and increasing gustiness. This can cause the fire to explode quickly. How will the identification of this phenomenon affect firefighters? Dr Graham Mills believes the identification of dry slots will allow firefighters to plan more extensively in the treatment of bushfires. In consultation with the Bureau of Meteorology, firefighters will have more understanding about the behaviour of the fire and should gain earlier warning of the potential for a fire to take off explosively. www.emergency.qld.gov.au EMERGENCY October 2006 11
Ambulance Week 2006 Ambulance Week has gone from strength to strength over the years... and 2006 was no exception. It all began with QAS Commissioner, Jim Higgins, having his head shaved to raise money for children with cancer. He raised more than $30,000 by going bald. “I am very proud to support Kayak and Cycle for Kemo Kids as vice-patron, raising funds with this worthwhile charity,” Commissioner Higgins said. During the week, various awards were handed out around the State, showcasing the diverse talents of QAS staff and providing the perfect opportunity for a catch-up with colleagues. Area Director Peter Chatman dares Commissioner Jim Higgins to take a peek at his new hair style during Family Fun Day activities at Southbank, Brisbane. Photo courtesy Gladstone Observer Russell Thomas, Renae Jinks and Ben Ghee prepare for the open day at Gladstone Ambulance Station as part of Central Region’s Ambulance Week celebrations. Assistant Commissioner for the South Western Region, Leo McNamara, presents LAC Achiever of the Year Gilbert Lang with his award. QAS Commissioner Jim Higgins and South Eastern Region Assistant Commissioner David Eeles present the Best Station Award to Ipswich OIC Jan Tooth. 12 EMERGENCY October 2006 www.emergency.qld.gov.au
Page 1 and 2: Photo by Michael Marston Emergency
Page 3 and 4: From the Minister After the recent
Page 5 and 6: Firefighters from Petrie, Deception
Page 7 and 8: Emergency Management Queensland’s
Page 9: Photos by Mark Cross Research uncov
Page 13 and 14: Make-up a serious business for Nick
Page 15 and 16: Aero-medical resources critical for
Page 17 and 18: 1 EMERGENCY October 2006 www.emerge
Page 19 and 20: “It is wonderful to have evidence
Page 21 and 22: EMQ managing Aussie generosity afte
Page 23 and 24: New QAS first aid manual launched T
Page 25 and 26: Directive to streamline recruitment
Page 27 and 28: Indigenous PTO course a success Whe
Page 29 and 30: In brief Variety Bash Firefighters
Page 31 and 32: Maroochydore farewells John Hall In
Page 33 and 34: 10 things you didn’t know about
Page 35 and 36: Clinical challenge By Drew Hebbron,
Page 37 and 38: Station Officer Andrew Sturgess and

Photo by Michael Marston - Department of Emergency Services ...

Create successful ePaper yourself

Delete template?

Save as template?