General News
24 September, 2024
Safety best policy during school break
As school holidays have officially kicked off this week, authorities are asking residents to prioritise safety during a range of activities.

The warmer weather and school holidays mean many will be dusting off the camping gear or stepping into hiking boots for the first time in months, and Ambulance Victoria manager emergency management Ian Hunt said it’s important people do these activities within their abilities and take preparation seriously.
“Before you hit the road, ask yourself if you’ve prepared for if something goes wrong,” he said.
“Consider learning basic first aid and CPR as emergencies can happen anywhere and at any time.”
He said checking the weather and being prepared for conditions to change is vital if you’re spending time in remote or unfamiliar locations.
“It’s easy to become lost or disorientated in remote bushland, especially in unpredictable weather conditions,” Mr Hunt said.
“Make sure you’re dressed appropriately for the conditions and bring enough water, food, matches, a torch and sunscreen with you.
“For hikers, be sure to consider the 10 essentials —navigation, light, sun protection, first aid, knife, fire, shelter, food, water and clothing.”
As Victorians also prepare for road travel, RACV is encouraging drivers to prioritise road safety and to be mindful of the road rules.
RACV head of policy James Williams said safety on the roads must come first, with over 206 lives already lost on Victorian roads in 2024.
“School holidays are often a time we travel on the roads and you should always be mindful of road rules and safety — especially when driving on heavily congested roads getting out of the city,” Mr Williams said.
“Many of the frustrating driving habits included in the RACV poll —like keeping to the right on a multi lane road — are unsafe and actually illegal and could see you face a penalty from Victoria Police of up to $198 fine and loss of two demerit points.
“By keeping road rules and safety at the forefront of your minds these school holidays, drivers can significantly reduce risks and ensure a safer journey for everyone on the road. Even one life lost on our roads is one too many.”
Additonally, people planning on heading out to the water during the upcoming school holidays are being urged to make safety a priority.
Goulburn-Murray Water (GMW) general manager water storage services Alan Shea said it was important for people to take the necessary precautions ahead of their visit.
“The spring school holidays are often when we start to see visitation to our lakes, dams, and reservoirs start to ramp up,” he said.
“If you are planning on taking your boat out, inspect it for any fuel leaks or damage to the hull, check the battery is charged, and make sure you have all the appropriate first aid and safety equipment with you.”
During the spring school holidays in 2023, there were more than 140,000 visits to GMW storages.
Mr Shea said it was important people do their bit to ensure GMW’s storages are safe places for everyone.
“We have people who visit our storages for various activities, from high-speed boating to kayaking, to swimming,” he said.
“If people plan their trips, follow the rules, and are mindful of other users, then everyone visiting our storages should have a safe and enjoyable time.”