The ACT Emergency Services Agency (ESA) is to see major upgrades to its communication and firefighting abilities.
Announced by the Minister for Police and Emergency Services, Mick Gentleman several vital ESA projects have been added to the Territory’s fast-tracked program and construction has already begun.
“The ACT Government is fast-tracking two new concrete helipads for large firefighting helicopters at Hume Helibase along with two new large tanks for water supply and retardant storage,” Mr Gentleman said.
“This will further improve the ACT’s bushfire response and support the safety of our personnel by helping firefighting operations happen as quickly and safely as possible,” he said.
“Upgrades to modernise the ESA media room are also being fast-tracked with new technology including software, network and display upgrades, digital multipurpose screens and green screen capability.”
Mr Gentleman said the upgrades would support ESA and its media partners to continue to provide crucial information updates to the community during emergencies.
“ESA does an outstanding job keeping the community informed with clear, comprehensive and regular information, issuing over 350 emergency warnings during the 2019-20 bushfire season,” he said.
He said work was scheduled to be completed by the end of June, in preparation for the 2020 – 2021 bushfire season.
