Community Disaster Volunteers complete training modules to better prepare for natural disasters

Community Disaster Volunteers have completed training which will better prepare them for when evacuation centres or places of refuge are activated during natural disasters.

Scenic Rim residents who signed up to become Community Disaster Volunteers are now better prepared for when natural disasters strike following training provided by the Australian Red Cross and Queensland Fire and Emergency Services.

Red Cross evacuation centre training was held at Tamborine Mountain and Boonah recently to prepare volunteers for when evacuation centres or places of refuge are activated. 

Scenic Rim Mayor Greg Christensen said the volunteers have learnt valuable skills on how to effectively and safely run an evacuation centre for residents who might be impacted by bushfires, floods and severe thunderstorms in the future. 

"In recent years, the Scenic Rim region has endured severe thunderstorms, flash flooding and raging bushfires, which is why it is so important our Community Disaster Volunteers are well prepared for any emergency," he said.

"These volunteers will connect with Council, the Australian Red Cross and other emergency services to help us understand the community's strengths and vulnerabilities so we can better support them in an emergency.

"Our Community Disaster Volunteers are all local people who put their hands up to learn the necessary skills so they can provide support before, during and after natural disasters to ensure the safety of everyone in their communities. 

"Volunteers were taught about sheltering practices, including COVID-19 considerations, opening and closing preparations, registration and intake responsibilities, media management, what support is available from other agencies and reporting. 

"It takes a special type of person to volunteer during an emergency, and I would like to thank our dedicated Community Disaster Volunteers for their willingness to go above and beyond to make the Scenic Rim a safer place to live.

"The Community Disaster Volunteers have also undertaken other training modules, including what it means to be prepared, understanding resilience, encouraging preparedness, and Mental Health First Aid."