When disaster calls, we answer.

The Western Australia State Emergency Service (WA SES) is a volunteer-based emergency service which provides assistance during severe weather events, disasters, major bushfires, land searches, rescues, and other serious emergencies.

Learn how to prepare for an emergency

Who to call in an emergency

Emergencies can happen at any time, and it's important to be prepared. Reaching the right people as quickly as possible can make all the difference. You can learn more about when it's best to call the SES here, but as a good rule of thumb, these are the services you should rely on for certain emergencies:

Fire or life-threatening emergencies

000

Significant structural damage, emergency repairs, and removing fallen trees

132 500

Police enquiries and non-emergencies requiring police

131 444

General emergency information

133 337

SES personnel preparing for a vertical rescue. A large rescue frame is positioned near a cliff edge with ropes attached. SES personnel in protective equipment and uniforms have equipped climbing equipment.

About SES

The Western Australia State Emergency Service (SES) is the state's principal rescue and hazard management agency for natural disasters, responsible for providing operational support and attending emergencies for natural disasters, vertical and road crash rescues, missing persons searches, and other major incidents in Western Australia (WA). The SES is a division of the Department of Fire and Emergency Services . We are operational 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, handling thousands of calls for service every year.

WA SES is comprised of more than 2,000 highly trained volunteers and professionals across 65 units, drawn from all walks of life. Each member brings a wealth of expertise to manage and mitigate emergencies effectively. Our personnel undergo rigorous training in diverse fields, ensuring that when a crisis arises, they are well-prepared to coordinate with police, fire brigades, and medical services, providing a comprehensive response to community needs.

Community resilience is at the forefront of the our mission. Through educational programs, workshops, and local engagements, we strive to foster a culture of preparedness. By equipping individuals and businesses with the knowledge and tools to prepare for disasters, the SES plays a pivotal role in reducing the impact of emergencies on the community and the environment.

Years of Operation: 66
Personnel: 2,000+
Total Units: 64

Learn more about the SES

Prepared, Informed, Alive.

You don't have to be a member of the SES to be prepared for emergencies. Knowing what to do before an emergency occurs could be the difference that saves your life. By taking a few minutes to plan ahead, you can help protect yourself, your family, and your community. Here are some resources to help you get started:

Heatwaves: Extreme heat is common in summer and kills more Australians than cyclones, storms, floods, and bushfires combined. Find out how to look after yourself, family and pets when things start to heat up.
Read more heatwave tips
Bushfires: Bushfires are unpredictable and happen every year in Western Australia. The single biggest killer is indecision. To survive a bushfire, you must be prepared to make your own decisions and leave early or stay and actively defend. Find out more about how to protect yourself, your family, and property.
Read more bushfire tips
Cyclones: Cyclones can be unpredictable and intensify rapidly. They are most common in northern parts of WA between November and April when low pressure systems form over warm tropical waters. Learn more about your risk of cyclone and get prepared here.
Read more cyclone tips
Floods: You and your family may be at risk of a flood, even if you have never seen floodwaters near your home. People who take action to prepare for a flood before it happens are more likely to keep themselves and their families safe.
Read more flood tips
Storms: Storms are the most common natural hazard in Australia and on average, cause the most damage. Storms are common between May and October throughout WA. Find out how to get prepared and stay safe during storms.
Read more storm tips
Health Emergencies: Health emergencies arise from time to time as new flu strains and infectious diseases spread throughout the community. Health emergencies also include mass reactions to extreme weather, pollution, and allergens.
Read more health emergency tips
Marine Hazards: Marine hazards can include obstructions, pollutants and dangerous currents in waterways, rivers and oceans. Learn more about keeping safe if you're out on a boat, swimming, or doing water sports.
Read more marine hazard tips
Earthquakes: Earthquakes are rare, but on average, WA receives the largest tremors in Australia. It’s important to remember that earthquakes often occur in a string of aftershocks. Learn more about earthquakes, and what to do if one happens near you.
Read more earthquake tips
Smoke Haze: Smoke Haze can be caused by a range of factors and can sometimes reduce visibility on roads and cause short-term health effects. The risks from Smoke Haze can be reduced by taking some simple precautions. Find out more below.
Read more smoke haze tips

Duty calls here.

It's not just a catchphrase, it's a call to action for those ready to make a significant difference. Volunteering with the State Emergency Service (SES) is a commitment to stepping forward when help is most needed.

Our volunteers are essential to our operations, providing support across a spectrum of roles from on-the-ground emergency responses to vital administrative functions. No matter your background or experience, there's a place for you in the SES. We're always looking for new volunteers to join our team.

Learn more about volunteering