REACT Response Team mobilises to support Aberfoyle

Early in October, a challenging scenario unfolded in central Scotland. An amber weather warning from the Met Office had the entire Forth Valley, particularly Aberfoyle, braced for severe flooding. 

The initial alert

The Local Resilience Partnership (LRP) was formally activated, pooling resources and implementing tested strategies to mitigate the potential crisis. The combination of the Met Office's advanced weather forecasting and on-the-ground situational analysis, facilitated a proactive approach to the anticipated adverse effects of significant rainfall.

As waters began to rise, a major incident was declared by Police Scotland. Aberfoyle was at the epicentre, nestled within the picturesque yet vulnerable landscape of Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National Park area. The village not only faced record water levels, but also an environmental and public health crisis when a Kerosene tank ruptured, releasing 1000 litres of heating fuel into the floodwaters.

REACT's swift action

The local authority, though prepared, found their resources stretched. This scenario underscored the importance of organisations like REACT. Even though they had been engaged in a training course, the team showcased an exemplary response. A Tactical Liaison was on site within two hours of activation, and a deployable team was ready shortly after.

The collaboration between REACT and the International Rescue Corps worked effectively. Given the flooded and impassable roads, transportation became a pivotal concern and the Rescue Corps’ offer to transport REACT’s Responders proved invaluable.

By late on Saturday, the waters began retreating and the immediate need for a rest centre waned. Most residents had managed to sort out alternative arrangements for accommodation and defence. The meetings that followed on Sunday were less about an immediate response and more focused on assessment and recovery.

Analysis and reflection

Every response to a crisis offers insights, and the Aberfoyle flood was no different. The agility of the REACT Response Team, even amidst an ongoing training course, was a testament to their readiness and capacity to adapt. 

The swift multi-agency response and collaboration during the crisis reaffirmed and tested the robust support system that stands ready to ensure communities' safety and well-being amidst unforeseen disasters.