| Protecting schools from bushfires |
| 23/9/2009 | |
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Sixteen schools located in bushfire-prone areas of the State will share in $1.4 million to improve bushfire safety ahead of the next fire danger season. Education Minister Jane Lomax-Smith says the bushfire protection grants will provide fire-fighting water to schools in the highest risk category. “These funds are part of the Rann Government’s $36 million School Pride Asset Program Grants, first announced in 2008 as a three-year program. “The bushfire protection grants allow schools to install up to 72,000 litres of water storage to supplement water supplies in the event of a bushfire. Some schools will also install fire hydrants and boosters that increase water pressure for fire fighting purposes. “Grants range in value from $33,000 to $170,000, depending on the scope of work to be completed. “We have taken the advice of representatives from the Country Fire Service and expert engineers to determine the fire risk of government schools and their particular needs. “School being targeted are considered by the CFS to be extreme risk sites and these grants will ensure there is sufficient water to fight a fire.” Dr Lomax-Smith says all schools in identified bushfire zones are required to have a bushfire management plan which is checked and revised every year. “All schools have a preventative maintenance schedule which includes making sure gutters are cleaned regularly and checking fire hydrants every three years. “The education department is currently looking at arrangements for the upcoming fire danger season in light of the recent Victorian bushfire findings. “We work very closely with the CFS who provide us with guidance on the best strategies to protect our schools and preschools in the case of a serious bushfire.” Schools to receive a bushfire protection grant are:
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