Pillowcases help children prepare

ALLANSFORD and District Primary School students are now well informed as to what to pack in the event of an emergency.

The students recently took part in a ‘pillowcase workshop’ with members of the Australian Red Cross, which helped them learn about what to prepare and pack in times of emergency.

The workshop, for students aged eight to 10 years, was aimed at teaching practical skills like what to pack for an emergency and how to prepare their minds for the thoughts and feelings that may arise before, during and after a disaster.

Students were each given a pillowcase, supplied by Australia Post, to decorate and take home to use as their personal emergency kit.

They were also encouraged to share what they learnt with families and friends.

Australia Post general manager community and stakeholder engagement, Nicky Tracey, said the pillowcase workshops help more than 6,000 children each year.

“These workshops help children living in high hazard risk areas to understand how they can prepare for a major disaster before they are in the thick of one,” Ms Tracey said.

“We are likely to face more dry, hot summers in the coming years so our work with Red Cross on pillowcase workshops is especially critical.
“The workshops and resources will arm children with practical skills in the event of a disaster.”

Printed on the outside of each pillowcase is a list of supplies children are encouraged to place inside.

This includes a first aid kit, change of clothes, radio, medications, toiletries, a blanket, pencil and paper, pet supplies, book, torch, batteries, food, water and ‘something special.’