Emergency services 'playdates' back by popular demand

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 said.

"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," Ms Hatton said.

"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.

"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."

Emergency Services Playdates will be held at:

Corrigans Beach Reserve, Batehaven, Monday, October 21, 5.30-7pm;

Quota Park, Narooma, Thursday, October 24, 5.30-7pm; and

Riverside Park, Moruya, Monday, October 28, 5.30-7pm.

Participating agencies include SES, Police, Fire and Rescue, RFS, Ambulance, Marine Rescue, Australian Breastfeeding Association and Red Cross.

Each event will also include a barbecue dinner for the whole family.

The playdates are part of Children's Week activities from October 19-27.

Other council-run Children's Week events will include an intergenerational picnic at Eurobodalla Regional Botanic Garden, a fun day at Tomakin, and the always popular science space event at Narooma.

Visit Eurobodalla Council's what's on for kids webpage or contact council's children's services team on 4474 7333 for more information.