LANCASHIRE firefighters are on standby to fly out to disaster-hit Indonesia.

Up to 10 volunteers from the county’s fire and rescue service could be called on to help the aid effort after massive earthquakes this week left more than 1,100 dead, and many more homeless.

Already crews from Greater Manchester, Cheshire, and other counties, have made the trip to Asia.

And fire bosses said Lancashire officers could provide an invaluable service.

John Taylor, from Lancashire Fire and Rescue, said officers trained in securing damaged buildings would be needed in the aid effort.

He said: “Our volunteer officers are ready to go at a minute’s notice and they have got their equipment all ready.

“If they go out there, they will use their skills and experience from fire and rescue work in Lancashire.

“For example, their past experiences in dealing with gas explosions and damaged buildings would ensure that aid workers don’t do more damage when they are digging for survivors.”

If called on, Lancashire’s response team would be filled with officers from around the county who agree to help in international emergencies.

Mr Taylor added: “We are happy to help because of the humanitarian aspect, but it does not leave Lancashire exposed in any way.

“Our stations have got four colour watches to deal with emergencies in the county.

“The experience and skills British officers can offer in situations like this one in Indonesia are desperately needed and we are glad to help.”

Any bill for services would be footed by the Foreign Office and not Lancashire council taxpayers, he added.

Today, a plane carrying firefighters from elsewhere in Britain left Gatwick Airport en route for the Sumatran city of Padang, the scene of two massive tremors.