Source: Victoria Country Fire Authority
Caravan parks provide accommodation for visitors and permanent residents alike. However, the high risk of injury and fatality with caravan fires and fires at caravan parks makes fire safety education and training crucial for park operators – particularly those in high-tourism areas.
Not only can fires in caravans and caravan parks lead to serious injuries and fatalities due to their inherent intensity and ability to spread quickly, if a fire breaks out in a tourist area it is critical that park staff and guests know what to do to evacuate safely and efficiently.
Education is vital to ensure park operators understand fire hazards so they can implement measures to prevent fires, protecting both property and guests.
CFA’s Bellarine Group of brigades, supported by CFA’s District 7 team, recently worked with the Victorian Caravan Parks Association to deliver a full day of fire safety education and training to more than 60 caravan park operators from across the state.
Held at Portarlington Fire Station on 18 October, the day covered fire risk, caravan park legislation, emergency management and evacuation planning, first attack firefighting and use of extinguishers, and property preparation.
Participants heard from CFA’s Community Infrastructure and Community Education teams, witnessing a demonstration of a gas cylinder flare off and learning how to use a fire blanket and test gas bottles for leaks.
They also used CFA’s Virtual Reality technology to experience putting out a small fire.
CFA district staff then helped owners familiarise themselves with how emergency services operate and respond in the event of a fire, discussing whether a truck could fit on the premises if a fire broke out at their park.
CFA’s Industry Fire Prevention Manager Leigh Marsh said educating caravan park operators, staff and ultimately their guests about fire safety could save lives and reduce injury in the event of a fire.
“Fire safety risks can vary in parks depending on where they are located, however the flammability of caravans and their small size means that if a fire starts from cooking, an accident or faulty equipment, there is a high risk of fatality,” Leigh said.
“The fire is also likely to spread quickly due to its proximity to other caravans and park facilities.
“For those parks situated in holiday areas such as our coastal hamlets, the risk of bushfire impacting the park is high and inadequate planning can lead to delays in people being able to evacuate safely.
“Knowledge of fire safety allows caravan park operators to develop and communicate effectively to their guests about emergency plans, ensuring a quick response if a fire occurs.”
Leigh said education and training was also important to help caravan park operators better understand their legal obligations in relation to fire safety.
“Caravan parks must comply with a range of legislative requirements in Victoria in relation to fire safety, including the CFA Caravan Park Fire Safety Guidelines, which were updated this year,” Leigh said.
“Caravan parks also often operate within local communities so being proactive in fire safety fosters goodwill and promotes community safety – as well as encourages visitors to come back.”
The Caravan Parks Information and Training Day was originally the brainchild of Ocean Grove brigade volunteers and was held each year at their station for about seven years prior to the COVID-19 pandemic.
David Wynn from Wynndean Holiday Resorts said it was great to see the day up and running again, especially given the release of new Caravan Park Guidelines.
“Relationship building is critical in the interpretation of the guidelines and their application,” David said.
“The day allowed park operators and staff to use firefighting equipment in a controlled setting which assisted greatly in understanding our fire safety and emergency management obligations.”
David, who is also a volunteer with Wye River Fire Brigade, said the timing of the event was perfect preparation for the peak holiday period and the upcoming fire danger period.
“We are very lucky to have access to this day in our region and the highly-credentialled and experienced presenters,” he said.
“The CFA team made it clear they were there to support us. Thank you to them and the many volunteers, local brigades and CFA district staff who contributed to the day’s success.
“We are looking forward to next year’s event, and if you are a park operator please go out and meet with your local brigade, invite them into your park and actively build those relationships.”
CFA Bellarine Group manager and Wallington brigade firefighter Alistair Drayton said part of CFA’s role was to help communities build resilience to fire and other emergencies through education, upskilling and developing relationships with sectors most at risk.
“Events such as this are important in building that momentum and supporting and promoting a safer response for all brigades across the state,” Alistair said.
“Thanks to the park operators for giving their time and enthusiasm. Their feedback was extremely positive including that the content presented was what was needed and easy to understand and implement.
“We look forward to continuing to build relationships with them in our ongoing efforts to foster resilient and safer communities.”
| Submitted by | CFA News |
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