As we move into the higher-fire-risk months, we want to let our school community know that BCPS is well prepared and working closely with DET’s guidelines on bushfire and grassfire readiness. According to DET’s policy, all schools must understand their risk, maintain an up-to-date Emergency Management Plan (EMP), and be ready for days of elevated fire danger. Department of Education Victoria Bushfire and Grassfire Preparedness

At BCPS we have:

• reviewed and updated our school’s EMP to include bushfire/grassfire actions
• ensured our grounds and surrounding vegetation are maintained, gutters cleared and access routes checked in line with the “readiness checklist” DET recommends. Department of Education Victoria Bushfire and Grassfire Preparedness
• clarified our communication protocols so that if a day is forecast to have a Catastrophic Fire Danger Rating in our local government fire-weather district, families will receive timely advice about potential school closure. Department of Education Victoria Bushfire and Grassfire Preparedness

What you can do as parents/carers:

• Please check we have your current contact details (including mobile) so we can keep you informed in an emergency.
• Take the time to review or update your own family’s Bushfire Survival Plan. Even if the school remains open, your home region or property may trigger your plan first.
• On days of elevated fire danger or if you receive communication from us indicating pre-emptive measures, please adapt your care arrangements accordingly.

We appreciate the partnership with our BCPS families in ensuring everyone’s safety. If you’d like to know more about the school’s bushfire/grassfire risk preparedness, or want to discuss aspects of your family plan, please don’t hesitate to speak with the Principal or contact office on (03) 59624019.