27 March 2008
GOVERNMENT FUNDS ‘SMART SPARX’ COMMUNITY FIRE SAFETY EDUCATION KIT
Mr Damian Hale MP, Federal Member for Solomon, has launched the ‘Smart Sparx’ Community Fire Safety Education Kit today at a presentation at Parliament House in Darwin.
The alert system was developed with the help of funding worth $90,000 provided by the Australian Government’s Working Together to Manage Emergencies initiative.
Representing Attorney-General Robert McClelland MP, Mr Hale said, “In all communities, there are vulnerable groups and individuals for which more detailed planning is required to assure their safety. We expect that the project developed through this grant will result in a reduction in the number of Territory children who are hospitalised with burn injuries each year.”
The ‘Smart Sparx’ kit is aimed at primary school students and includes classroom activities and homework designed to involve parents.
“By working together with local government and volunteer agencies, the Australian Government is helping to build their capacity to deal with emergencies and disasters,” Mr Hale said.
“The Local Government Association of the Northern Territory, in conjunction with the NT Department of Education, Catholic Education and the NT Fire and Rescue Service have shown considerable commitment to the safety of indigenous children through the development of the ‘Smart Sparx’ project.”
“I also gratefully acknowledge the financial contribution made by Conoco Phillips, Alcan-Gove, Macarthur River Mines and TIO to help develop the project.”
Media contact:
Adam Sims, Mr McClelland’s office, 0419 480 224
Alastair Wilson, EMA Media Liaison, 0408 606 462