SES help just a few taps away

Queenslanders needing urgent help in a disaster can now get in contact with the State Emergency Services (SES) via a new app on their mobile phones.

Minister for Police, Fire and Emergency Services Jack Dempsey said the SES Assistance App was another way for people to get help, and delivered on the Government’s promise to revitalise frontline services.

“The SES Assistance App enables the public to log a request for help instead of phoning and waiting on hold during peak times,” Mr Dempsey said.

“The app is simple to use and captures the vital information the SES requires to prioritise and manage requests from the public.”

Mr Dempsey said the app would save an incredible 800 minutes of manual work each summer storm by automatically capturing the job information and assigning it to the relevant region.

"Previously the Emergency Management Queensland watch desk had to manually add each request for help that came in via the telephone," Mr Dempsey said.

"Now the SES Assistance App will automatically capture this data and save an average of eight minutes per call. It certainly adds up when you consider a typical summer storm generates around 100 calls."

“By having a second way to contact the SES, this app should not only decrease calls, but also provide SES volunteers with all the information they need before arriving on scene,” he said.

“The Newman Government promised at the election to revitalise frontline emergency services after Labor ignored them so for long and that includes embracing the latest technology.

“We’ve also seen the SES grown by an additional 600 volunteers since this government was elected.”

Queensland Fire and Emergency Services (QFES) Commissioner Lee Johnson said the SES aimed to provide a timely response and appropriate help where needed.

“SES volunteers respond to hundreds of requests during significant weather events, and we ask that those requiring assistance please be patient,” Mr Johnson said.

“Most SES tasks are not quick jobs and often extensive work and time is required to attend to flood and storm damage.

“I ask the public to remember that the SES is made up of volunteers dedicated to helping others and the SES will always put the safety of its volunteers first during adverse weather conditions.”

The app is available to download on Apple and Android devices via iTunes and Google play.

Residents can also lodge their request for SES assistance at www.132500.qld.gov.au.

[ENDS] 28 February 2014

Media contact: Andrew Blow 0408 912 821