NSW SES Port Stephens members completed their swim and fitness tests last week.

In the NSW SES, all levels of Flood Rescue Operators are required to demonstrate their fitness and ability to self-rescue.

The swimming component was completed at Lakeside Leisure Centre, with the fitness component completed at the local SES Unit.

All SES members are required to complete these tests as part of their initial and ongoing currency.

Alysha Springett, Deputy Unit Commander of Port Stephens SES told News Of The Area, “Safety is paramount, and these tests have been specifically designed to ensure a base level of fitness for our members.”

There are three different levels of swim tests, depending on the type of Operator.

The In-Water swim test consists of a 200 metre swim (in under four minutes 30 seconds), floating on the back for two minutes, followed by five minutes of non-stop treading water.

The On-Water and Land-Based Operator test consists of a 25 metre swim (in full two piece uniform plus Personal Floatation Device (PFD)), then a 50 metre swim in swimmers (in under one minute 30 seconds), floating on the back for two minutes, followed by five minutes of non-stop treading water.

The Boat Operator test consists of a 25 metre swim (in full two piece uniform and PFD), then a 25 metre swim in swimmers, followed by 30 seconds of non-stop treading water.

The fitness test then comprises nine separate activities designed to test strength, endurance, flexibility, movement and balance of members.

By Marian SAMPSON