Benefits from emergency meeting


More than 50 residents from across the Cessnock LGA attended the Emergency Management workshop held at Kearsley Community Hall recently. The meeting was held following a request by Councillor Cordelia Troy who referred to the recent bushfire activity in neighbouring areas.

Representatives from all combat agencies including NSW Police, the Rural Fire Service, Fire & Rescue NSW, National Parks and Wildlife, State Emergency Service, and the Volunteer Rescue Association provided information to residents on how the agencies work together to prepare for and respond to emergencies. Although some events and situations may look to be major, an emergency is determined when the situation reaches the point where actual or imminent danger to the health or safety of people or property is reached and requires a significant and coordinated response. In that situation the Local Emergency Operation Controller may declare an emergency, open the emergency operation centre and seek the assistance of all relevant agencies to provide assistance.

Whilst the current focus is upon bushfires, an emergency can also cover flood, motor vehicle and airport incidents and all agencies provided valuable insight into the coordinated approach. The Rural Fire Service and NSW Fire and Rescue representatives reminded all attendees that despite the fires in neighbouring areas being controlled and the change in weather, the threat of fire in the Cessnock LGA is real and is being carefully monitored. They urged residents not to become complacent and report any unusual sightings or behaviour.

Valuable suggestions were provided to residents relating to the best preparation actions, communication methods and on ground actions that will provide the greatest protection to life and property.

Key messages from all agencies included:

  • Prepare now before an event arises – many residents took the opportunity to collect the RFS Bushfire Survival Plan handbook as the first step to prepare their plan
  • Allow sufficient time to leave with safety; before other issues arise such as smoke, heat, falling trees, road blocks etc. This advice was provided by agency reps and residents who had lived through previous emergencies
  • Have a reliable means of communication available that will be active if power supply is cut, such as battery powered radio
  • Stay alert, report any unusual behaviour, activity or sighting to the relevant authority
  • Property can be replaced life cannot

 

For more information visit Cessnock City Council