AUSTRALIAN Red Cross is leading a national call-to-action during “EmergencyRedi Week”, which runs until 21 September. It is dedicated to encouraging all people living in Australia to prepare for emergencies and disasters before they strike.
Activities and events are curated to spark conversations and provide practical steps, which communities and individuals can take to stay safe.
There is a free workshop in Urunga on Monday, 29 September, from 10:30 to 11:30 am at the Ocean View Hotel.
Red Cross Emergency Services Volunteer Judy Jackson, who will facilitate the workshop, said it “offers a practical introduction to emergency preparedness and helps guide attendees through creating their own EmergencyRedi plan.”
“Participants will receive vital information and tools that empower them to take proactive steps in managing potential emergencies.”
Ms Jackson will be supported by NSW Community Resilience Coordinator Milo Prado who said, “Australian Red Cross are well aware that Bellingen LGA and the mighty Bellinger River are renowned for flooding.
“Add to this the vast areas of natural bushland of the World Heritage area of Dorrigo National Park, Bellinger River National Park and at Urunga, the Bongil Bongil National Park.
“By being aware of your surroundings and learning simple, yet effective emergency planning strategies, people can reduce stress during a crisis and protect those they care about.”
Ms Jackson said the workshop covers more than just strategies and planning, “it’s getting back to basics, like knowing your neighbours; as more often than not, they may be your first point of contact in an emergency”.
Spaces for the workshop are limited, and registrations are essential.
To secure a place call Milo Prado on 0417 979 378.
Carole Sampson, Bellingen Council’s Emergency Management Officer, said the Council supports the initiative to help build stronger, more prepared and connected communities.
“Emergencies can happen at any time and being prepared is essential to keeping yourself and your loved ones safe.”
During the month, Ms Jackson has been going into schools and giving Pillowcase presentations where she speaks to the children about how to prepare for emergencies and what to pack in their own emergency kit.
The Pillowcase initiative was originally inspired by events during Hurricane Katrina in the US.
While evacuating campus, students of a local University used pillowcases to carry their cherished and basic possessions.
After hearing this, American Red Cross staff developed the concept of using a pillowcase as an emergency kit.
The program quickly grew into a global preparedness education program.
Delivered by Red Cross volunteers and staff, the workshop encourages children to be active participants in their own emergency preparedness.
The content is useful for all kinds of emergencies and includes activities to highlight the importance of being prepared.
Pillowcase helps to reduce real and imagined fears and has successfully built children’s stress management skills.
By Andrea FERRARI
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