SEVENTY new Holden cars will be wrecked this weekend in the name of safety. 

Firefighters from ACT Fire & Rescue will compete against other emergency service workers from across Australia, NZ and Asia in an annual Road Rescue Challenge until Sunday at EPIC.

“Until Sunday, teams will compete in a series of motor vehicle accident rescue scenarios with the overall winner eligible to represent Australia at the World Rescue Challenge next year,” ACTF&R Chief Officer Paul Swain said.

The Australasian Road Rescue Organisation conducts the annual rescue challenge to assist all emergency service workers in the development and exchange of information, knowledge and skills in road rescue.

“Vehicles of today are very much different to those of 20 years ago and having personnel train to the latest vehicle safety technology is essential,” said Mr Swain. “There are always dangers to rescuers when conducting road rescues. This could involve compressed air gas cylinders hidden under pillars and seats as well as air bags which could deploy during vehicle rescues.

“During the Capital Rescue Challenge machinery will be used to replicate accident damage to vehicles and crews will use hydraulic rescue tools to free patients who are trapped.

“We are also thankful to the team at Holden for donating 70 new vehicles for the Capital Rescue Challenge.

“The ACT team comprises of five firefighters from ACT Fire & Rescue and one intensive care paramedic from the ACT Ambulance Service.”

The public is invited to watch the road rescues from 8am till 4pm. Entry is free.