THE NSW Rural Fire Service has confirmed the death of a volunteer firefighter in the Hunter region.
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The male volunteer was working on a fire at Stanford Merthyr near Cessnock when he suffered a suspected heart attack on Thursday evening.
The RFS said fellow volunteers provided initial medical assistance including the use of an Automated External Defibrillator until ambulance officers arrived.
The volunteer passed away while being transported by ambulance to the John Hunter Hospital in Newcastle.
NSW RFS Commissioner Shane Fitzsimmons said the man’s death is a tragic reminder about the dangers faced by members.
“This is a terrible tragedy, where somebody who has gone to assist the community in its time of need, has paid the ultimate sacrifice,” Commissioner Fitzsimmons said.
“Our thoughts, prayers and condolences are with the member’s family, fellow brigade members, and colleagues.
“We are offering every assistance possible to the volunteer’s family and his colleagues.
Commissioner Fitzsimmons said it would be inappropriate for the Rural Fire Service to make any further comment at this time as RFS personnel comfort the man's family.
Meantime, the NSW Minister for Emergency Services, David Elliott, has extended his condolences to the officer's family.
"I am deeply saddened by the death of a NSW Rural Fire Service volunteer in the Hunter region tonight," Mr Elliott said in a brief statement.
"The volunteer, like all our emergency service workers, was selflessly dedicating his time to the protection of the community.
"It is a timely reminder of the dangers faced by our emergency service workers every day."