New publication highlighting correct use of 000 emergency number endorsed

19/11/99
Emergency Services Minister Kevin Prince today endorsed a new publication highlighting the correct use of the 000 emergency number, as well as the functions of emergency service agencies.
The publication, Emergency 000, was written by Katanning couple Mary and Frank Filmer and is available to primary schools throughout Western Australia.
The 40-page activity booklet is suitable for children aged over eight years, and it sets out to reinforce, through a range of activities, how best to use the 000 emergency number.
"The 000 emergency number receives more than one million calls each year throughout Australia," Mr Prince said.
"Of these calls, it is estimated that only about 25-30 per cent are real emergencies and the remainder are nuisance calls. There is an obvious need to educate the community, including children, about the correct use of the 000 emergency number and this publication is one of many ways we can spread that message.
"The worksheets in the book are designed to provide children with a complete set of learning activities about the different emergency services available in Australia.
"The book covers a range of information including use of the 000 number and the functions of the police, fire services and ambulance.
"It includes a variety of activities which provide children with an opportunity to learn and practise the correct way to telephone each emergency service.
"Children need to be taught not only the right way to telephone the emergency number but the importance of not making nuisance calls, which may prevent a person in real need of assistance from gaining access to emergency services as quickly as possible."
Mr Prince today presented a copy of the booklet to the head girl and head boy of Albany Primary School.
The publication has been reviewed by Fire and Emergency Service Authority Community Safety staff, who found that the booklet provides another fire safety product aimed at education the community through schools.
Copies of the booklet can be obtained from Ready-Ed publications at a cost of $21.95 each.
Media contact: Kirsten Stoney 9480 5970