Emergency Services Playdates are back, with three events across Eurobodalla in late October.
Eurobodalla Council's coordinator of children's services Louise Hatton is again welcoming the shire's children and their families to a playdate with a difference.
"Families can meet with disaster experts and hear first-hand vital need-to-know information about how to prepare for and act in an emergency," Ms Hatton says.
"We know families need to take decisive action when facing natural disasters like floods and bushfires, but decisions can be complicated. Throw evacuation centres into the mix and keeping children safe, healthy and hydrated can be overwhelming for parents."
Following the 2019-20 fires, feedback to Council's children's services team showed parents felt rushed when packing things really needed for evacuation, and that some children remain apprehensive around emergency services personnel, vehicles and equipment.
"Last year we invited agencies that lead during disasters to meet with families directly in a relaxed setting. Kids can get used sirens and lights and have some fun with the equipment and trucks up close, while parents can speak to experts on the right steps to take preparing for or evacuating from natural disasters," Ms Hatton says
"While Council does not lead during a disaster – that's for professionals from agencies like the RFS and SES – we do have an extensive network and good communication channels.
"These Playdates last year were considered a bit innovative but the need was clear; identified by both research and our own knowledge that children learn best through play. And the response was phenomenal so we're following up with another three events this year."
- Corrigans Beach Reserve, Batehaven, Monday 21 October, 5.30-7pm
- Quota Park, Narooma, Thursday 24 October, 5.30-7pm
- Riverside Park, Moruya, Monday 28 October, 5.30-7pm
Participating agencies include SES, Police, Fire and Rescue, RFS, Ambulance, Marine Rescue, Australian Breastfeeding Association and Red Cross.
The Playdates are part of Children's Week activities from Saturday 19 to Sunday 27 October. Other Council-run Children's Week events include an intergenerational picnic at Eurobodalla Regional Botanic Garden, a fun day at Tomakin, and the always popular science space event at Narooma. Visit Council's what's on for kids webpage
