EQUIPMENT upgrades will see a group of Riverland emergency service volunteers provided with increased resources and safety. 
The Renmark SES unit earlier this month received a new storm trailer – fitted with new equipment – through the State Government. 
SES chief officer Chris Beattie said the enclosed trailers could be easily towed behind quick response vehicles, bringing vital equipment and supplies to emergency locations.
“The SES plays a vital role in assisting communities when storms, floods and extreme weather events occur,” Mr Beattie said. 
“During these events our volunteers may be required to rescue people or animals from danger, help with temporary repairs, undertake searches or provide support to communities during these challenging times. 
“Having the right equipment is essential to do so and these new trailers will help make these tasks just a little bit easier. I know our units are very appreciative to have received them.” 
Each trailer – worth approximately $40,000 – is fitted with a generator, lighting system and extendable mast, pole saw, a handwash tank and two underbody toolboxes for carrying equipment to incidents.
Minister for Emergency Services Emily Bourke said the upgrades would ensure SES volunteers have quick access to the tools needed to protect the community. 
“Our volunteers serve their communities year-round and providing the right equipment helps keep them safe in the toughest of conditions,” Ms Bourke said. 
“These new trailers will be ready to deploy from the Eyre Peninsula to the Riverland and up into the Flinders Ranges, providing additional coverage across our regions.
“It’s an important investment to give skilled SES personnel easy access to the tools they need out in the field when wild weather hits.”