General News
20 August, 2024
Lights and sirens lesson for Talbot
Local students were treated to an important lights and sirens lesson last Thursday at the Talbot Primary School’s Emergency Services Day.
Members from the Talbot Fire Brigade, police, ambulance and SES services were invited to educate students on their important role in the community and showcase the equipment used during emergencies.
Talbot Primary School wellbeing officer Zack Edwards-Soupe said it was a great opportunity for students to become more aware of what to do in emergencies.
“I think there is a little bit of a stigma around emergency services in some of these communities and I think we can break down those stigmas and educate the kids on what the purpose of the emergency services is,” he said.
“From this day we really want a positive impact, anything can happen at any time — parents could have diabetes or other medical issues, and even the students themselves could have their own medical issues.
“Now if an emergency or medical episode were to happen, they know who to call.”
Students from Amphitheatre, Moonambel, Natte Yallock and Timor were also invited to attend to learn more about their local emergency services.
Mr Edwards-Soupe said it’s important to build on the social connections between the schools.
“It’s great to invite [the schools] over and it seems like the kids enjoyed themselves,” he said.
“I want people to come here and see how open-hearted our school is, that Talbot Primary School is a school that is welcoming to everyone no matter where they come from.
“A happy child is a talkative child, bringing in different ages of different groups in our community can really open the students up and it has a positive impact on their mental health.”
Engagement with local schools has become a key priority for Maryborough SES unit controller Emily Hooke, who said early emergency education can play a crucial role in ensuring the safety of the community.
“I think that it’s important to be educating our kids early on, there’s the common misconception that when you are in trouble you call Triple Zero (000),” she said.
“Just getting basic information across like knowing the number for the SES (132 500) can make a world of difference.
“My favourite part was asking the kids what they thought we actually do, there were some really interesting responses from that, one of which was if a cat was stuck in a tree.
“I have no doubt that when the kids got home, they would have talked to their parents about it, and then that starts the family conversation about being prepared.
“We are keen to go visit other schools and they are welcome to book a visit through the SES website or they can contact the unit through our Facebook page.”