Community
20 June, 2025
Up close with emergency services
STUDENTS at Derrinallum P-12 College were treated to a special visit recently.
Students in Prep-Year Six had a visit from representatives of the Pura Pura Country Fire Authority (CFA) brigade, Victoria Police and a Triple Zero (000) call taker.
Integrated Studies teacher Natalie Blomeley said the visit tied in with the previous term’s unit, which focused on safety including fire safety and calling Triple Zero in an emergency.
“To help with that, we got the CFA, the police and Martha Prewett from Triple Zero to talk about their roles in community safety,” she said.
“The kids had lots of questions – for the CFA, they asked what kind of things they would go to and what they can do to be safe.
“The representatives spoke about not being afraid to call Triple Zero, what happens when the call is made and the importance of not making fake calls.
“The kids got to sit in the fire truck, use the hose, look through the police car and turn on the sirens.
“It was really fun – the kids really loved it. It was also nice to have that community engagement from the police point of view.”
Ms Blomeley said each speaker provided a different perspective on safety.
“CFA volunteer Nathan delivered students around the fire truck and students took turns in using the fire hose,” she said.
“This linked to students learning essential fire safety skill – like “stop, drop, roll,” identifying hazards, and planning escape routes – while emphasizing the importance of calling Triple Zero in a fire.
“Lismore Police Senior Cosntable Mitch Prewett brought his police car along to reinforce personal safety, community rules and when to get in touch with law enforcement.
“Students loved seeing inside of the police car, hearing the siren and getting breath tested – they were particularly interested in some of the bizarre laws that Mitchell could list.
“Our Triple Zero call taker Martha Prewett chatted to students about calling Triple Zero – choosing the right service, clearly stating the emergency, and giving precise location details and shared stories about interesting calls she had taken.”
Snr Cons Prewett showed students a variety of police tools, including handcuffs and the speed radar gun.
“They loved it. They were so excited to do it and got really involved,” Ms Blomeley said.
“Almost all of the kids got onto the fire truck or had a look in the police car. All of the kids got to use the hose.
“They all had a breath test, so they were running around with breathalyser straws.
“I’m hoping they feel more comfortable calling Triple Zero if they ever need to.
“I’m also hoping they have more of an understanding of emergency services’ roles in the community and how they keep them safe.
“These interactive sessions not only empowered our students to act confidently in emergencies but also fostered respect and trust in the heroes who protect our community.”
Ms Blomeley said the school is hoping to run the program again following the enthusiastic response from students.
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