By KATHRYN BERMINGHAM
IT MAKES sense that schools should be one of the safest places to be in the event of a bushfire.
The Victorian Registration and Qualifications Authority have outlined guidelines for registered schools on bushfire preparedness.
The ‘Bushfire at-risk register’ lists schools which are identified as being located in an area at risk of bushfire. These schools are subject to separate guidelines to minimise the danger to students and staff.
The VRQA states specific guidelines for schools on the at-risk register which includes closing the school on days declared a ‘code red’ level of fire danger.
All schools maintain an emergency management plan which must be reviewed at least annually and immediately after any incident.
Schools on the bushfire at-risk register must inform students, staff and parents/guardians about their bushfire arrangements and staff must be trained in bushfire preparedness roles.
Schools must also maintain a register of bushfire emergency equipment and ensure it is in working order. This may include water supplies and equipment, fire hydrants, hose reels and extinguishers, sprinkler systems, alarms, first aid materials, fire blankets and communication systems.
Emerald Secondary College is one of the schools listed on the at-risk register. Principal Wayne Burgess says that the school works hard to be ready in the event of a bushfire.
“We do have an incredibly detailed fire safety plan and we are constantly in review of procedures to make sure we’re as prepared as we can be.
“Bushfires are so unpredictable that we need to be ready for anything. If that includes keeping kids at school later to ensure their safety then that’s what we’ll do.”
Ensuring that school infrastructure is adequately prepared in the case of a bushfire is another important part of being fire ready.
All schools must regularly monitor and remove materials around buildings or facilities that are at risk of igniting.
Schools must also regularly ensure that emergency access to buildings is sufficient and, where relevant, must consult with local agencies such as the CFA or council on the compliance of buildings and facilities. Mr Burgess said this has been another important aspect of preparations at the college.
“We’ve carried out safety works in different areas of the school and have generators in case of emergency.”
Many schools in this area are included on the bushfire at-risk register. For the names of schools included on the register as well as more information on schools and bushfire preparedness, visit the Department of Education website at www.education.vic.gov.au.
