Shepparton Search and Rescue members and VICSES volunteers came together recently in a joint-training initiative focusing on road-rescue accreditation for individuals.

Shepparton Search and Rescue president Mick D’Elia said the training ran over two weekends where each participating member would receive their individual accreditation in road rescue.

‘‘When we’re out at a rescue we’re required to have a minimum of four members with that accreditation on-scene,’’ Mr D’Elia said.

Lead by Tatura VICSES Unit’s Kris Parker, about nine Search and Rescue members and two SES volunteers took part in the training, which was conducted in a step-by-step process.

Mr D’Elia said members went through how to approach a scene, the dangers at a scene, glass management and stabilisation of the vehicle before a training using a whole range of tools and equipment.

‘‘There’s a whole range of equipment that can open boots, bonnets, doors, and take roofs off completely,’’ he said.

Mr D’Elia said the joint-training session ensured emergency services were on the same page when attending a call-out.

‘‘Our thought process is, we improve members skills and prepare for road crash rescues as a team,’’ he said.

‘‘We’re working together with training, so anybody from any unit can come and assist at a scene and be on the same page.’’

Mr D’Elia said once members received their road rescue accreditation they were required to update this through skills maintenance.