1. evacuation sub plan

Annexure 4 Sub Plans 1. Evacuation Sub Plan

Abbreviations and Glossary Council is the Rockhampton Regional Council

DDC District Disaster Coordinator

DDMG District Disaster Management Group

DERM Department of Environment & Rescource Management

DMA Disaster Management Act (2003)

EMQ Emergency Management Queensland

GIS Rockhampton Regional Council GeKO (Geographic Knowledge Oracle) Information System

LDC Local Disaster Coordinator

LDCC Local Disaster Coordination Centre

LDMG means the Rockhampton Regional Council Local Disaster Management Group

LDMP Local Disaster Management Plan

MoU Memorandum of Understanding

NPRSR Department of National Parks, Recreation, Sport & Racing

PSPA Public Safety Preservation Act

QAS Queensland Ambulance Service

QFES Queensland Fire & Emergency Service

QPS Queensland Police Service

RRC Rockhampton Regional Council

RSPCA Royal Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals

SES State Emergency Service

SOP Standard Operating Procedure

Rockhampton Regional Council Local Disaster Management Plan – 1. Evacuation Sub Plan

TABLE OF CONTENTS

1 PURPOSE OF EVACUATION SUB PLAN ............................................................................ 5 1.1 OBJECTIVES ........................................................................................................................ 5 1.2 ORGANISATION FOR PLANNING ........................................................................................ 5 1.3 ROLE ..................................................................................................................................... 5 1.4 MEDIA AND PUBLIC INFORMATION ARRANGEMENTS ..................................................... 6 1.5 FINANCIAL PROCEDURES .................................................................................................. 6 1.6 PLAN TESTING ..................................................................................................................... 6 2 EVACUATION ....................................................................................................................... 6 2.1 PURPOSE ............................................................................................................................. 6 2.2 SCOPE .................................................................................................................................. 7 2.3 ALTERNATIVE TO EVACUATION ........................................................................................ 7 2.4 AUTHORITY TO EVACUATE ................................................................................................ 7 2.5 CONCEPT OF OPERATIONS ............................................................................................... 8 2.6 EVACUATION PROCESS ..................................................................................................... 8

Table 1: The Evacuation Process .......................................................................................... 8 2.6.1 Decision .................................................................................................................... 8 2.6.2 Warning ..................................................................................................................... 9 2.6.3 Withdrawal ................................................................................................................ 9 2.6.4 Shelter ....................................................................................................................... 9 2.6.5 Return ....................................................................................................................... 9

2.7 REGISTRATION .................................................................................................................... 9 2.8 STANDARD OPERATING PROCEDURE AND CHECKLIST ................................................. 9 2.9 ROLES AND RESPONSIBILITIES ....................................................................................... 10

Table 2: Key Functions of Organisations .............................................................................. 10 3 EMERGENCY SHELTER .................................................................................................... 12 3.1 PURPOSE ........................................................................................................................... 12 3.2 CONCEPT OF OPERATIONS ............................................................................................. 12 3.3 IDENTIFYING AND RECORDING EVACUATION CENTRES ............................................. 12 3.4 ESTABLISHING AND OPERATING EVACUATION CENTRES ........................................... 13

3.4.1 Authority for use of premises as an Evacuation Centre ........................................... 13 3.4.2 Closing an Evacuation Centre ................................................................................. 13 3.4.3 Alternative Evacuation Centres ............................................................................... 13 3.4.4 Emergency Animal Shelters .................................................................................... 14


4 EMERGENCY HUMAN RELIEF SERVICES WITHIN EVACUATION CENTRES ................ 14 4.1 PURPOSE ........................................................................................................................... 14 4.2 SCOPE ................................................................................................................................ 14 4.3 CONCEPT OF OPERATIONS ............................................................................................. 14 4.4 RESPONSIBILITIES ............................................................................................................ 15

Table 3: Responsibilities for provision of human relief services ............................................ 15 5 MISCELLANEOUS ISUES / ARRANGEMENTS ................................................................. 16 5.1 PURPOSE ........................................................................................................................... 16 5.2 COMMUNICATIONS ........................................................................................................... 16 5.3 CHILD SAFETY ................................................................................................................... 16 5.4 MEDIA & PUBLIC INFORMATION ...................................................................................... 17 5.5 REMOTE & ISOLATED COMMUNITIES ............................................................................. 17 5.6 CALD GROUPS & SPECIAL NEEDS GROUPS .................................................................. 17 5.7 HOSPITALS, NURSING HOMES & AGED CARE FACILITIES ............................................ 17 5.8 SCHOOLS & CHILD CARE FACILITIES .............................................................................. 17 5.9 CARAVAN PARKS .............................................................................................................. 18 5.10 TOURIST RESORTS ........................................................................................................... 18 5.11 POPULATION & DEMOGRAPHICS .................................................................................... 18 5.12 PUBLIC EDUCATION .......................................................................................................... 18 5.13 TRANSPORTATION ............................................................................................................ 18 5.14 REVIEW & ASSESSMENT OF PLAN .................................................................................. 19 5.15 COORDINATION ................................................................................................................. 19

Annexure 1: Chairpersons Sub Committee Duty Statement ................................................ 20 Annexure 2: Potential Evacuation Centres .......................................................................... 22 Annexure 3: Legal Advice ................................................................................................... 22 Annexure 4: Evacuation Centres Provision for Animals....................................................... 23


1 PURPOSE OF EVACUATION SUB PLAN

The purpose of the Rockhampton Regional Council (RRC) Local Disaster Management Group (LDMG) Evacuation Sub Plan is to detail the agreed emergency management arrangements, at the local level, in planning for the evacuation of residents at risk during an emergency or disaster event to ensure that they can be moved to a location of relative safety and provided with relevant support services if necessary. 1.1 OBJECTIVES

The objectives of the Evacuation Sub Plan are to: ▪ Define legal requirements and authority to evacuate; ▪ Define management structure with roles and responsibilities for the conduct and control of

evacuations; ▪ Facilitate an effective withdrawal of “at risk” persons; ▪ Provide managed emergency shelters/evacuation centres with relevant welfare provisions

for displaced persons; ▪ Coordinate a safe and ordered return of displaced persons.

1.2 ORGANISATION FOR PLANNING

An Evacuation Sub Committee is established by the LDMG to oversee the evacuation processes of the Rockhampton Regional Council Local Disaster Management Plan (LDMP). The contact list for members of the Evacuation Sub Committee is held by the Disaster Management Officer. The Chair of the Evacuation Sub Committee is responsible for ensuring the contact list is maintained and up to date. The Evacuation Sub Committee should comprise the following members:

Chairperson: Officer in Charge Rockhampton Police (QPS) Refer to duty statement (Annexure 1) Members: Chair of Cyclone and Storm Sub Committee SES Local Controller Australian Red Cross – Regional Manager Central & Western Coast Salvation Army QFES Rural Operation – Area Director Rockhampton Regional Council – Disaster Management Officer Others TBD Supporting Advisors: Representatives from other agencies, industries or community organisations deemed

necessary to act as advisors for both planning and operational arrangements.

1.3 ROLE

The role of the Evacuation Sub Committee is to assist in achieving the objectives of the evacuation sub plan by:

▪ Regular review and assessment of the plan; and ▪ Providing reports and recommendations to the LDMG in relation to evacuation issues of

disaster management; ▪ Assisting the LDMG in coordinating support to the control authority responsible for the

evacuation (and return) of “at risk” persons during an emergency or disaster event. The Evacuation Sub Committee should meet on a regular basis (minimum of twice per year) as determined by the committee Chair.


1.4 MEDIA AND PUBLIC INFORMATION ARRANGEMENTS

Emergencies and disasters are likely to draw significant media interest and a very significant requirement for public information. The response to these needs is to be coordinated through the Local Disaster Coordination Centre (LDCC) and the Media Liaison Officer. 1.5 FINANCIAL PROCEDURES

All costs incurred by Council as a result of a disaster event will be coordinated by the Local Disaster Coordinator (LDC). Upon activation of the LDMG a disaster cost centre and project/job numbers will be created and activated to capture costs for deployment of resources and response and recovery activities. Cost centre and project/job numbers will be provided by Council’s Finance Section. Council’s financial management policy and procedures will govern all financial delegations and authorisations to expend funds, recording of expenditure etc. Lead and Support Agencies should also record all costs associated with a disaster response in accordance with their individual financial management policies and procedures. The Chairperson of the Evacuation Sub Committee is responsible for ensuring that all costs incurred in relation to evacuation processes are adequately recorded under the appropriate project/job numbers.

1.6 PLAN TESTING

This plan together with supporting standard operating procedures (SOPs) is to be tested annually. This could involve the conduct of relevant exercises or the implementation of the plan in “real time”. The Chair of the Evacuation Sub Committee is to brief the LDMG on the results of such tests.

2 EVACUATION

2.1 PURPOSE

Evacuation is a risk management strategy that may be used as a means of mitigating the effects of an emergency or disaster on a community. It involves the movement of people to a safer location. However, to be effective it must be correctly planned and executed. The process of evacuation is usually considered to include the return of the affected community. Evacuation is defined in the Local Disaster Management Plan to mean “the voluntary or involuntary removal of person/s or things from a disaster area”.


2.2 SCOPE

When the danger to personnel and property is expected to be for an extended period, residents should be removed from the emergency/disaster area and find alternative accomodation with family or friends. If necessary, evacuees may be relocated to an evacuation centre with access to all welfare support facilities. When the danger is expected to be of a short duration, residents should be removed from the immediate danger area to a safe assembly point as determined by the Chairperson Evacuation Sub Committee, until the danger has passed. Only minimum support facilities may be required. Some evacuations will need to be disciplined by phasing to avoid congestion or to ensure that special-needs groups can be evacuated in time. Phasing may be by area or by special needs groups. 2.3 ALTERNATIVE TO EVACUATION

Although evacuation is considered an important element of an emergency response which may be effective in many situations, there will be occasions when it may be assessed that people would be safer to stay and shelter in place. Depending on the nature of the hazard, measures such as closing windows, isolation of air conditioning systems and listening to the radio and/or TV to receive information can be taken to reduce vulnerability.

2.4 AUTHORITY TO EVACUATE

The LDMG (including the Evacuation Sub Committee) has no legislative authority to invoke an evacuation and can therefore only offer advice to the community of the need or potential need to evacuate an area. Should the LDMG require a mandatory evacuation of an “at risk” area or community, they are to make a request through the District Disaster Coordinator (DDC) who is a commissioned officer within the Queensland Police Service. In practice, there are three degrees of evacuation:

1. Self Evacuation – where an individual makes the decision to evacuate based upon their perceived risk of the threat;

2. Advised Evacuation – where a decision to evacuate has been made by the appropriate authority but legislation is not used. The intention is to remove all vulnerable elements from the risk and is reliant upon the community obeying instructions;

3. Mandatory Evacuation – is forcing the removal of the “at risk” community using legislation such as the Disaster Management Act 2003, Fire and Rescue Service Act 1990 or the Public Safety Preservation Act 1986.

Legislation In Queensland, three main Acts exist that can be used to force an evacuation; however the scope of their application differs dependant upon the cause of the disaster event i.e. natural versus man made. The three Acts are:

1. The Public Safety Preservation Act 1986 Only a commissioned officer of the Queensland Police Service can use the Public Safety

Preservation Act 1986 (PSPA) to effect an evacuation by declaring an Emergency Situation.


SELF EVACUEES TEND TO BY-PASS

2. The Disaster Management Act 2003 For disaster situations (natural or man-made origin), where there is a need to forcibly evacuate a community, the Disaster Management Act 2003 can be used by declaring a Disaster Situation. This would require a District Disaster Coordinator (who is a Police Officer) to make a request through to the Minister of Emergency Services, via Emergency Management Queensland (EMQ) in order to declare a disaster situation. A DDC can only declare a Disaster Situation for one district or part of that district. In accordance with Section 77 (c) of the Act, under a Disaster Situation declaration, emergency services and other persons declared as Disaster Officers can use powers provided to evacuate persons from potential and identified threats. The scope of the powers provided under the Disaster Management Act includes both natural and man-made events.

3. The Fire and Rescue Service Act 1990 To force an evacuation for events that fall within the statutory authority of Queensland Fire and Rescue Service (QFRS), the Fire and Rescue Services Act 1990 can be used. Authority to effect a forced evacuation is delegated to the Senior Fire Officer in attendance.

2.5 CONCEPT OF OPERATIONS

As the LDMG has no legislative authority to invoke an evacuation, it will therefore always be in a support role for the responsible lead agency. The Chairperson of the LDMG (in consultation with the Chairperson Evacuation Sub Committee and DDC) may recommend to the appropriate authority that evacuation of an “at risk area” is preferred and the extent of the area to be evacuated. 2.6 EVACUATION PROCESS

There are five (5) stages to the “Evacuation Process”. These are demonstrated below:

Table 1: The Evacuation Process

2.6.1 Decision The decision to evacuate is the first of the five identified stages of the evacuation process. There are often many complex issues to be taken into account in making this decision and it may need to be made in the absence of the totality of the desired information.

HAZARD IMPACT/ HAZARD THREAT

DECISION WARNING WITHDRAWAL

SHELTER

RETURN

Warning Messages

Assembly Area/Site

Evacuation Centre

Emergency Accommodation

One Stop Shop


2.6.2 Warning Warning is the second of the five stages of the evacuation process and comprises dissemination of public information in the form of advice or direction. An evacuation warning must be structured to provide timely and effective information. The effectiveness of the evacuation will largely depend on the quality of the warning process. Factors which may influence the effectiveness of the warning include time, distance, visual evidence, threat characteristics and sense of urgency demonstrated by the emergency services. For example, the more immediate the threat, the greater the readiness of people to accept and appropriately react to the warning.

2.6.3 Withdrawal Withdrawal is the third stage of the evacuation process and involves the removal of people from a dangerous or potentially dangerous area to a safer area.

2.6.4 Shelter Shelter is the fourth stage of the evacuation process and involves provision of the basic needs for affected people away from the immediate or potential effects of the hazard. Shelter provides for the temporary respite of evacuees. It may be limited in facilities, but must provide protection from the elements as well as accommodate the basic personal needs which arise at an individual level in an emergency.

2.6.5 Return Return is the fifth and final stage of the evacuation process. It will be necessary to assess the disaster area to determine if return is possible and identify any special conditions which may need to be imposed. 2.7 REGISTRATION

All evacuated persons should be registered. The Queensland Police Service is the responsible authority for ensuring registration of evacuees (they may be assisted by Red Cross). Guardian software may also be utilised to capture registrations.

2.8 STANDARD OPERATING PROCEDURE AND CHECKLIST

SOP’s and an evacuation checklist have been developed to assist in the evacuation process. Where relevant the SOP’s and checklists have been developed in conjunction with Red Cross guidelines.


2.9 ROLES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

The following table lists the key functions of organisations that may be involved in evacuation operations at the local level.

Table 2: Key Functions of Organisations

Organisation Responsibility Key Functions Support Agency/s

Queensland Police Service

Lead Agency/Control Authority

Implementation of evacuation process Crowd & traffic control of evacuation

routes Crowd & traffic control at emergency

accommodation centres/assembly points Security of evacuated area Security of emergency

accommodation centres/assembly points Evacuation of off shore islands Coordinate & control search

operations Registration of evacuees (may be

assisted by Red Cross)

SES QFES Rural Coast Guard Australian Red

Cross NPRSR

Chairperson Local Disaster Management Group

Manage decision process for evacuation

Issue media release on “advised” evacuations Request authority from DDC for

mandatory evacuation

LDMG Evacuation Sub Plan

Committee DDMG

Evacuation Sub Plan Chairperson & Committee

Evacuation planning & coordination

Coordinating the evacuation of “at risk” persons during an emergency or disaster event Developing an effective evacuation

sub plan and to regularly review and assess the plan Provide reports and make

recommendations to the LDMG in relation to evacuation issues of disaster management Determine/identify need for

assembly points Determine/identify evacuation

centres to be utilised Coordinate communication needs for

evacuation centres/assembly points

LDMG SES QFES DDMG

Cyclone, East Coast Low & Severe Storm Threat Sub Plan, Chairperson & Committee

Transport

Assess and determine appropriate transportation routes from area to be evacuated to nominated evacuation shelter/location Provision of appropriate

transportation resources where necessary to assist in evacuation of persons

LDMG SES QPS QFES QAS DDMG QFES EM

RRC Environmental & Public Health

Public Health Provision of appropriate public health measures for evacuation shelter/locations i.e. sanitation/waste Advice as to “health

warnings/advice” to be issued to the public

LDMG Qld Health

RRC Engineering Services

Engineering advice

Advice as to status of access/egress routes & extent of any hazards. For example flooding.


RRC Local Laws Animal

control/evacuation Coordinate evacuation of

companion animals and family pets where required Identification/provision of suitable

facilities for housing evacuated animals

RSPCA Animal care groups

DDC Mandatory evacuation

Seek approval for disaster declaration Issue media release on mandatory

evacuation Authorise declared disaster officers

as necessary

DDMG QPS

Australian Red Cross

Management of emergency evacuation centres & assembly points

Overall management of evacuation centres & assembly points Registration of evacuees/displaced

persons (under guidance of QPS & LDCC)

Salvation Army St Vincent’s De

Paul RRC Community

Services RRC Public &

Environmental Health Dept of

Communities Lifeline LDMG SES RRC Logistics RRC Facilities

Salvation Army Catering Provision of emergency feeding/catering service

SES Community

Organisations (i.e. Rotary, Lions etc) RRC Environment &

Public Health (list of mobile food vendors)

St Vincent De Paul Clothing/Bedding Provision of emergency clothing to affected persons Provision of bedding & blankets

RRC Community Development

Recovery Recovery arrangements as per Recovery Sub Plan

St John Ambulance First Aid Provision of first aid within emergency accommodation centres & assembly points

QAS

Centrelink Social services Social security entitlements Refer to Recovery Sub Plan

QFES Fire & Hazmat Fire & hazardous material evacuation

QPS SES

QAS Medical Casualty & medical transport Recovery Sub Committee & Chairperson

Recovery Recovery arrangements as per Recovery Sub Plan


3 EMERGENCY SHELTER

3.1 PURPOSE

Shelter, in the context of evacuation, may include: ▪ assembly areas which cater for people’s basic needs; ▪ temporary accommodation; or ▪ evacuation centres.

An Assembly Area is – “a designated location used for the assembly of emergency affected persons.” Temporary Accommodation is – “accommodation provided over an extended period of days, weeks or months, for individuals or families affected by an emergency. “ Evacuation Centre is – “a centre that provides affected people with basic human needs including accommodation, food and water. In addition, to enhance the recovery process, other welfare/recovery services may also be provided.” (Australian Emergency Management Glossary). Whilst the LDMG has identified a number of facilities throughout the region that may be utilised as evacuation centres, these facilities should be utilised for accommodation purposes only as a last resort. Preferred options for persons requiring accommodation are, in priority order:

1. a destination of the person’s choosing (i.e. relatives, friends etc.); 2. an established accomodation venue away from the “at risk” area (i.e. hotel, motel, caravan

park etc.); 3. a nominated and established evacuation centre


During a disaster it may be necessary to relocate some community members to a place of relative safety away from the “at risk” area. That place would usually be an evacuation centre, a place established to cater for the immediate basic needs of evacuees. It is anticipated that people will normally spend a maximum of seventy two (72 hours) in an evacuation centre, before either being returned to their primary residence or being settled in appropriate mid-long term accommodation. 3.3 IDENTIFYING AND RECORDING EVACUATION CENTRES

Suitable evacuation centres for evacuees will be indentified, inspected and recorded by the Evacuation Sub Committee and approved by the LDMG. A list of potential evacuation centres is found at Annexure 2 of this plan. This list is to be kept current by the Chairperson of the Evacuation Sub Committee in consultation with relevant council officers and a copy held within the LDCC when activated. Potential Evacuation centres database are also stored/identified in Guardian software and Council’s GIS.


3.4 ESTABLISHING AND OPERATING EVACUATION CENTRES

Within the Rochampton Region, the LDMG is responsible for the management of evacuation centres through the provision of a facility coordinator. A representative of the owner of the facility may be present during operation of the facility if desired, and subject to approval of the LDMG. Council has entered into an MoU with Red Cross Queensland whereby Red Cross will:

1. provide sufficent emergency services teams to undertake the following roles at the activated evacuation centre(s) throughout the region:

a. evacuation centre management teams capable of coordinating the welfare activities at activated evacuation centre(s);

b. registration of evacuees under the National Registration and Inquiry Systems; c. provide personal support to evacuees at activated evacuation centre(s)

2. ensure all contact details for key Red Cross personnel are amended as required; 3. report to the LDC on the welfare requirements of the evacuation centre.

Prior to the order for evacuation, the Chairperson of the Evacuation Sub Committee will ensure that evacuation centres are activated in accordance with Evacuation Centre Management Sub Plan. Evacuation Centres must be manned and operational prior to advice being given to the public to move to the facility.

3.4.1 Authority for use of premises as an Evacuation Centre Premises identified for use as evacuation centres has been undertaken in consulation with and with the consent of the owners/operators of such facilities however written agreements/MoUs between the LDMG and owners of the facilities, have not been entered into (refer to Annexure 3). The Disaster Management Act 2003 provides that a DDC may direct the owner of any property to put the property under the control or at the disposal of a designated person. This would ensure that the issues of liability and insurance are adequately catered for in accordance with the requirements of the Disaster Management Act. When considering the use of facilities as evacuation centres, consideration must be given to seeking an appropriate direction from the DDC to ensure that these issues are adequately accounted for.

3.4.2 Closing an Evacuation Centre The closure and refurbishment of an evacuation centre is the responsibility of the nominated facility manager, assisted by other agencies and organisations providing services within the shelter.

3.4.3 Alternative Evacuation Centres Evacuation centres will generally be those facilities that have been inspected and endorsed as suitable for the purposes of this plan. However, alternative evacation centres may be activated in certain circumstances e.g. to cater for large numbers of evacuees or for specialist needs, such as elderly persons, disabled persons, child care requirements or cultural issues. Evacuation centres may be community facilities or commercial premises, but priority should be given where possible to State, local government and community facilities.


3.4.4 Emergency Animal Shelters It is LDMG policy (Annexure 4) to discourage animal owners from bringing their pets to evacuation centres. The responsibility for coordinating emergency animal shelters rests with Council’s Local Laws/Animal Control. The holding capacity for animals within Councils animal shelters is limited and assistance should be sought from other relevant agencies such as the RSPCA and other animal care groups. 4 EMERGENCY HUMAN RELIEF SERVICES WITHIN EVACUATION CENTRES

4.1 PURPOSE

Relief is – “the provision of immediate shelter, life support and human needs of persons affected by, or responding to an emergency. It includes the establishment, management and provision of services to emergency relief centres.” Once the decision has been made to establish evacuation centre/s as part of the evacuation process (shelter) consideration must also be given to the need for human relief services to be provided within the facility.

4.2 SCOPE

Evacuation Centres are primarily to provide people with basic human needs such as short term sleeping accommodation, food and water, ablutions and first aid. Whilst it is anticipated that people will normally spend a maximum of seventy two (72 hours) in an evacuation centre, this will be dependant upon the severity of the event and the potential for evacuees to return to their premises and/or the availability of alternative accomodation facilities post event. The provision of other welfare and support services such as longer term accommodation, financial assistance, insurance and legal advice etc, will be provided as part of the recovery process and Recovery Sub Plan. This evacuation plan therefore addresses the aspect of human relief services to be provided within evacuation centres. This will include:

▪ registration; ▪ food & water; ▪ short – term accommodation; ▪ first aid; ▪ bedding, blankets, linen & clothing; ▪ emergency counselling if required.


Effective implementation of human relief services relies on partnering and close cooperation among a range of State and local government agencies and community based organisations. When this plan is activated, all agencies may be gathered to assist with service provision.


4.4 RESPONSIBILITIES

Responsibility for the provision of human relief services within evacuation centres is shown in the following table.

Table 3: Responsibilities for provision of human relief services

Key Function Agency Support Comments

Evacuation/relocation of persons. Registration of evacuees (may be assigned to Red Cross)

Queensland Police ▪ SES ▪ DERM ▪ QFES ▪ Coast Guard ▪ QFES Rural

QPS and QFES are the only agencies that can order evacuation/s

Evacuation Centre – facility management including: ▪ Access ▪ Power ▪ Communications ▪ Cleaning ▪ Security

Rockhampton Regional Council

Red Cross RRC provides facility coordinator for overall facility management

Evacuation Centre - welfare arrangements coordination

Red Cross ▪ Salvation Army, ▪ St Vincent De Paul ▪ Lifeline ▪ RRC ▪ DDC

Coordinate welfare activities within evacuation centre/s

Catering Salvation Army SES Accommodation Rockhampton

Regional Council Dept. of Communities Emergency, short term

within evacuation centre (up to 72 hrs)

Material Aid St Vincent De Paul ▪ Salvation Army ▪ Church groups ▪ DDC

Clothing/bedding

First Aid St John Ambulance

Queensland Ambulance Service

Psychological Assessment/Emergency Couselling

Qld Health

Sanitation & waste removal Rockhampton Regional Council – Environment & Public Health Section

Qld Health Provision of appropriate public health measures & waste removal/disposal. Health warnings/advice.


5 MISCELLANEOUS ISUES / ARRANGEMENTS

5.1 PURPOSE

To identify other important issues that are not covered elsewhere within the Evacuation Sub Plan. 5.2 COMMUNICATIONS

Communications between agencies with disaster management responsibilities is a vital part of disaster management arrangements. Upon activation of local disaster management operations, channels of communication should be immediately implemented between Council, relevant agencies, DDC, neighbouring local governments and state agencies. Similarly, appropriate media liaison persons should be engaged to assist with the passage of factual event related information and the likely community consequences, from the outset. Communications with the public in general are also crucial to the success of any disaster management response and recovery operations. The LDCC is the focal point for disaster related information. Complex emergency events are likely to require enhanced management processes that are only available from an interactive multi agency coordination centre. The purpose of a LDCC is to ensure that these enhanced management processes can be applied. To achieve this, a LDCC should:

▪ act as a centre for acquiring and deploying support resources; ▪ manage information collection and dissemination; ▪ develop intelligence and strategic planning capability; and ▪ develop and maintain overall record of the event.

All agencies involved in local disaster management operations should be aware of communication protocols and processes as contained within the Communication Sub Plan and associated SOP’s. All communication deemed significant should be recorded within the Guardian software. 5.3 CHILD SAFETY

The safety of all vulnerable groups is crucial in a disaster, including children. If children are present in an evacuation centre it must be ensured that they are accompanied by a parent or guardian. If necessary, consideration should be given to “Blue Card” accredited person/s being present for supervision of children.


5.4 MEDIA & PUBLIC INFORMATION

Media interest and the need for an efficient system to provide the public with accurate information in an emergency or disaster situation requires a professional approach to press releases and public information provision and dissemination. At a local level, the release of information to the community regarding the emergency, and associated threats, will be the responsibility of the Chairperson of the LDMG or their delegate. All information provided within the Evacuation Centre (i.e. information leaflets & updates) should first be approved by the Chairperson of the LDMG via the media liaison officer. The media liaison officer is responsible for drafting all such information. All media is to be recorded within the Guardian software. 5.5 REMOTE & ISOLATED COMMUNITIES

In the event of a disaster/emergency requiring evacuation, consideration must also be given to the needs of remote and isolated communities including off shore islands. 5.6 CALD GROUPS & SPECIAL NEEDS GROUPS

In the event of a disaster/emergency requiring evacuation, consideration must also be given to the requirements of CALD Groups and Special Needs Groups. A list of key contacts for CALD groups and Special Needs Groups is maintained within the LDMP. 5.7 HOSPITALS, NURSING HOMES & AGED CARE FACILITIES

Hospitals, Nursing Homes, Retirement Villages and Aged Care Facilities are expected to develop and maintain their own evacuation plans. Transportation of some occupants of these facilities will need to be undertaken with appropriate medical & security support. Aged care homes must be accredited under the Accrediations Standards for Residential Aged Care in order to receive public subsidies. Accrediatation Standard 4.6 (Fire, Security and other Emergencies) requires all aged care services to have emergency management plans and protocols in place including options or arrangements for relocation or evacuation. However, it should be recognised that assistance may be required from the LDMG in some instances, with the provision of transport resources. Where possible facililty operators are to be contacted to ensure that they are aware of any pending or imminent threat. 5.8 SCHOOLS & CHILD CARE FACILITIES

The safety of students and staff of these facilities is the responsibility of the Department of Education for public schools and the relevant owner/provider for private facilities. It is expected that all such facilities develop and maintain appropriate emergency plans. Where possible the Department of Education and other relevant facililty operators are to be contacted to ensure that they are aware of any pending or imminent threat.


5.9 CARAVAN PARKS

Proprietors of Caravan Parks are responsible for patrons and staff of their facilities and are expected to develop their own emergency plans. The LDMG may be required to assist with the provision of emergency shelter and relocation in the event that such facilities are required to be evacuated. Where possible facililty operators are to be contacted to ensure that they are aware of any pending or imminent threat. 5.10 TOURIST RESORTS

Proprietors of tourist resorts are responsible for patrons and staff of their facilities and are expected to develop their own emergency plans. Where possible facililty operators are to be contacted to ensure that they are aware of any pending or imminent threat. The LDMG may be required to assist with the provision of emergency shelter and relocation in the event that such facilities are required to be evacuated. 5.11 POPULATION & DEMOGRAPHICS

The Rockhampton Region is a multicultural society and includes numerous small towns and villages both along the coast and in the rural hinterland. The LDMP contains statistics of the demographics of the community taken from the 2011 Census data collected by the Australian Bureau of Statistics. Reference should be made to this information when considering human relief measures within evacuation centres, in particular language, religion and need for assistance. 5.12 PUBLIC EDUCATION

Community awareness and education are critical to the successful implementation of an evacuation plan. Public education programmes shall be undertaken on a regular basis as determined by the LDMG to ensure community awareness and preparedness in regards to the effects and impacts of disasters or emergencies on the community. The Evacuation Sub Committee is to ensure that such programmes include the need to evacuate under certain circumstances and specific action to be taken. 5.13 TRANSPORTATION

Transportation of persons requiring assistance to evacuate will be undertaken in consultation with the Cyclone and Storm Sub Committee, LDMG and Transport Sub Committee.


5.14 REVIEW & ASSESSMENT OF PLAN

A Local Government may review or renew its local Disaster Management plan when the Local Government considers it appropriate (S59 DMA). However, the Local Government must review the effectiveness of the plan at least once a year. As such the Chairperson Evacuation Sub Committee should ensure that the Evacuation Sub Plan is appropriately reviewed and/or renewed. Assessment of the plan and response capability may be achieved through operational activation or by the conduct of exercises. When reviewing the effectiveness of the plan annually, a minimum of one practical exercise per annum should be undertaken, involving as many relevant organisations, authorities and stakeholders as possible. 5.15 COORDINATION

Coordination of activities in response to an event will be undertaken within the nominated LDCC as identified within the LDMP.


Annexure 1: Chairpersons Sub Committee Duty Statement

LOCAL DISASTER MANAGEMENT GROUP

Roles and Responsibilities

Sub Committee Chairperson

Purpose of Sub Committee: Disaster Management Sub Committees are responsible for preparing and maintaining disaster management plans in relation to essential functions as determined by the Rockhampton Regional Council (RRC) Local Disaster Management Group (LDMG). These plans will become sub plans to the RRC Local Disaster Management Plan (LDMP). A Chairperson will be appointed for each Sub Committee. Supervision: Sub Committee Chairpersons are accountable to the LDMG. Position Summary: Chairpersons of Sub Committees are appointed by the LDMG, to manage and oversee the required functions of the relevant Sub Committee. Council’s Disaster Management Officer is available to advise the Chairpersons and Committees in regards to these functions. Responsibilities: ▪ Ensure Sub Committees meet on a regular basis as determined by the LDMG (4 times per year);

▪ Chair meetings of the Sub Committee;

▪ Lead and manage the Sub Committee in preparing and maintaining appropriate and relevant disaster management plans;

▪ Ensure minutes of Sub Committee meetings are appropriately recorded;

▪ Represent the Sub Committee through regular attendance at meetings of the LDMG as required;

▪ Provide regular reports to the LDMG on the activities and progress of the Sub Committee;

▪ Make recommendations to the LDMG as necessary in regards to issues identified by the Sub Committee;

▪ Maintain a working knowledge as to the roles and responsibilities of the LDMG and contents of the LDMP;

▪ Ensure that all relevant agencies and organisations are represented on the Sub Committee;

▪ Ensure regular attendance of members at Sub Committee meetings;

▪ Ensure that the Sub Plan is regularly reviewed, assessed and updated;

▪ Ensure that contact details of members of the Sub Committee are recorded and remain current;

▪ Ensure that all members of the Sub Committee are provided with a copy of the Sub Plan;


▪ Ensure that members of the Committee maintain a working knowledge as to the contents and objectives of the Sub Plan and the role of the Sub Committee;

▪ Ensure that members of the Sub Committee are regularly updated in regards to decisions and/or actions of the LDMG;

▪ During times of emergency/disaster or activation of the LDMG:

o Notify members of the Sub Committee as to the activation of the LDMG as required;

o Consult with the Local Disaster Coordinator in regards to the need for, or decision of the Chair of the Sub Committee, to activate the Sub Committee;

o Ensure that the Sub Committee meets to determine and develop strategies relevant to the Committees area of responsibility, in response to or preparation for the event;

o Advise the LDMG in relation to strategies developed in regards to the Committees area of responsibility, in response to or preparation for the event;

o Regularly liaise with the Local Disaster Coordinator in regards to the Sub Committee’s activities in response to or preparation for the event;

o Ensure representation of the Sub Committee within the LDCC as required;

o Ensure that members of the Sub Committee are advised and updated in regards to decisions and/or actions of the LDMG;

o Provide advice to the LDMG as required, in regards to issues within the area of responsibility of the Sub Committee.


Annexure 2: Potential Evacuation Centres A listing of potential evacuation centres can be found in the attached documents.

Annexure 3: Legal Advice

Legal advice re: liability in relation to use and operation of Evacuation Centres is held by RRC Disaster Management Officer.


Annexure 4: Evacuation Centres Provision for Animals

LOCAL DISASTER MANAGEMENT GROUP

POLICY

Evacuation Centres Provision for Animals

OBJECTIVE: To determine Rockhampton Regional Council Local Disaster Management Group’s level of provision for animals within Evacuation Centres in the event of a disaster or major event. PREAMBLE: The Disaster Management Act 2003 provides the legislative process to develop a Local Disaster Management Plan in order to develop effective disaster management strategies to ensure effective coordination of available resources to assist communities in the event of a disaster. POLICY: ▪ The responsibility for welfare of pets and animals rests with the owner of the animals; ▪ Owners of animals are therefore responsible for and encouraged to make personal preparation for

their animals in the event of a disaster or major event; ▪ Provision of evacuation centres or emergency shelters is predominantly for human occupation and

pet/animal owners are therefore discouraged from bringing their animals to evacuation centres or emergency shelters with the exception of disability assistance dogs (i.e. guide dogs);

▪ The need for animal owners to make personal preparations for their animals welfare is to be identified within relevant public education sessions and information brochures;

▪ It is acknowledged that their may be occasions or instances in which this policy cannot be adhered to and it may be necessary to accept an animal within an evacuation centre;

▪ The decision to accept an animal within an evacuation centre in such instances, will rest with the nominated Supervisor of the relevant evacuation centre;

▪ In accepting an animal within an evacuation centre the Supervisor will take all reasonable steps to comply with Health and Safety requirements and where possible ensure that any animal is housed separate from areas utilised for human occupation;

▪ The responsibility for the care and welfare of any animal accepted within an evacuation centre rests solely with the owner/keeper of such animal.


ADOPTED: / /200 SIGNED: ……................................................. / /200 Chairperson Rockhampton Regional Council Local Disaster Management Group RRC LDMG RESOLUTION 29 / 04 / 2009 It was resolved that the Rockhampton Regional Council Local Disaster Management Group adopts the attached Policy- Evacuation Centres - Provision for Animals


1. evacuation sub plan

Documents