With up to 200,000 people in the city on any given day, the City of Perth is starting a conversation about emergencies, focusing on the unique challenges they can present for inner-city residents, businesses and visitors.
Chair of Commissioners Eric Lumsden said the City had improved its emergency management methodology greatly in recent years (supported by a new Emergency Management Strategic Plan) but a gap analysis found there was an opportunity to boost emergency preparation materials.
“There are approximately 26,000 people living in the City of Perth and as the local government authority, we have a responsibility not only to them but to the thousands of workers, visitors, students and tourists who are in the city each day,” Mr Lumsden said.
“While many Western Australians are aware of the significant threat of emergencies such as bushfires, it’s critical for people to understand the risks unique to high rise buildings and prepare accordingly, which is why the City has focused on emergency awareness resources.”
Mr Lumsden said the new information brochures and videos were aimed at generating discussion about the realities of an emergency and encouraging people to develop their own emergency plan.
To complement the resources, City of Perth residents are invited to attend a free emergency preparation seminar from Red Cross, with two sessions to be held in May. Places are limited so registrations are essential. These sessions are very engaging, full of real life stories, activities and practical ways people can prepare.
While relevant State Government agencies lead in an emergency, local government plays a fundamental role in emergency preparation and recovery.
As well as building strong relationships with stakeholders and community groups, the City of Perth develops and manages the 300-strong, citywide CCTV network via Citywatch Surveillance Centre – a crucial asset in emergency situations.
Mal Cronstedt AFSM, Deputy Commissioner of Strategy and Emergency Management for the Department of Fire and Emergency Services (DFES) said with such a large number of people coming into and out of the city on a daily basis, the City of Perth has recognised that having a community who is prepared for hazards will lead to a more resilient community.
“Reassuringly, the City has developed their ‘Are you prepared Perth’ project to concentrate on not only the residents and commuters, but also the businesses that operate from the CBD,” Mr Cronstedt said.
For more information, visit perth.wa.gov.au/emergency.
