A specialist team of firefighters has been trained to rescue people trapped in the north-east’s most extreme terrain, including cliff faces, deep gorges and on hard-to-reach rooftops.
From today, the newly-launched technical rope rescue unit will be available to carry out even more hazardous operations, after completing intensive training.
Based at the Altens Community Fire Station in Aberdeen, the new rescue team will specialise in rescue scenarios that involve tall buildings, steep cliffs or inaccessible hillsides.
The unit is the fourth of its kind in Scotland.
Scottish Fire and Rescue Service’s area commander Bruce Farquharson said: “We have trained and equipped these firefighters to the same standard as our three other rope rescue units across the country to ensure that they can respond quickly and effectively to help people who find themselves in difficulty across Aberdeen and the surrounding areas.
“They are also capable of responding to the most dynamic and challenging incidents, supporting our other resources and partners at incidents where access may be difficult due to the terrain.”
City councillor Martin Greig welcomed the new addition to the region’s fire service capabilities.
“It is highly reassuring that some of the latest technology is available in our area to help when individuals find themselves in dangerous situations,” he said.
“We are fortunate to have highly trained professionals who are dedicated to rescuing victims in emergencies.”