[MG] Bushfire

The following actions are to be undertaken by the College at the times specified:

Ongoing Actions (Year-Round) #

Ensure the landscaped grounds are maintained to the requirements of Standards for Asset Protection Zones (WAPC 2017) with the following items checked prior to October of each year:

1. Objects: Within 10m of a building, combustible objects must not be located close to the vulnerable parts of the building (i.e. windows and doors);
2. Fine fuel load: Combustible dead vegetation matter less than 6mm in thickness reduced to and maintained at an average of two tonnes per hectare; and
3. Trees (> 5m in height):
   1. Trunks at maturity should be a minimum distance of 6m from all elevations of the building.
   2. Branches at maturity should not touch or overhang the building.
   3. Lower branches should be removed to a height of 2m above the ground and/or surface vegetation.
   4. Canopy cover should be less than 15% with tree canopies at maturity well spread to at least 5m apart as to not form a continuous canopy.
4. Building assessment: As the gymnasium has been nominated as the shelter-in-place location, a building assessment of critical elements such as doors, windows, vents, and air conditioners against AS3959:2018 should be completed and necessary upgrades enacted.
5. DFES publications: Detailed information and checklists are available via DFES Bushfire Publications, including the Homeowner’s Bushfire Survival Manual and the Fire Chat Bushfire Preparedness Toolkit.

Actions Immediately Prior to Bushfire Season (Term 1, Term 4) #

1. Review the Emergency Management Plan (EMP) to ensure details, procedures, and contact phone numbers are correct and up to date.
2. Ensure staff and students are informed and familiar with the procedures laid out in the EMP.
3. Ensure current version of bushfire evacuation plan is in visible locations.
4. Ensure adequate levels of drinking water are available in the facility in case of emergency.
5. Ensure any firefighting equipment (hoses etc.) are serviceable and available.
6. Ensure no hazards are present (e.g. rubbish piles) that could contribute to increased fire intensity.
7. Ensure property access is kept clear and easily trafficable.
8. Ensure first aid kits, fire extinguishers, emergency lighting, and other emergency resources are current, serviceable, and accessible;
9. Ensure roof and gutters are free from leaf litter and debris.
10. Ensure an emergency evacuation kit has been prepared and is easily accessible by staff.
11. Brief all staff on the bushfire evacuation procedures with updated advice provided when fire warnings are issued by DFES for the locality.

Ongoing Actions During Bushfire Season (November-April) #

1. Maintain the landscaped grounds and Asset Protection Zones to the requirements of Standards for Asset Protection Zones.
2. Maintain compliance with the local government’s annual firebreak and fuel load notice issued under section 33 of the Bush Fires Act 1954.
3. Ensure defendable spaces around buildings and assembly points are maintained.
4. Update contact details of the Emergency Management Team and employees.
5. Parent Alert Procedure: Refer to Appendix C of the Principal’s Guide to Bushfire for guidance on preparing a communication plan.