Hi all!
I'm a firefighter in the United States and after seeing so much on Reddit about the recent bush fires in NSW I've been moved and am looking for any way to volunteer my abilities to help. I know Redditors can be incredible so in short, my question is can anyone point me in the right direction?
About me: I've been a firefighter in the states for 13 years, have all of the IFSAC fire certifications we require here and currently operate as an Engineer. I am able to pay my way to Sydney, and from there I am willing to go wherever I'm needed. I can only spend 1-2 weeks helping, but I want to do whatever I can.
I filled out a contact form earlier today for the NSW Rural Fire Service and asked them whether they had a way I could help in person, but I understand it could take quite a while for them to respond given what they are dealing with. I wanted to call their main office but don't have an international calling option with my cell phone plan. I've read a few articles about US firefighters being sent over to help but they were all with federal agencies, something I don't have ties to. While I know this sounds daunting I would love to be able to get in touch with someone where I can show up with my gear and get put to work - can anyone give me some advice?
Thank you all in advance!!