Resthaven’s bushfire prevention and preparedness program is in operation
Stay safe this summer!
‘With the start of summer and the warmer weather already upon us, Resthaven’s bushfire prevention and preparedness program is in operation,’ says CEO, Darren Birbeck.
‘Resthaven takes the risk of bushfire very seriously.’
‘Staff undergo annual training, and our procedures are annually reviewed.’
‘Generators were installed at all Resthaven residential aged care homes in 2018-19, ensuring the comfort and safety of residents in the event of power failure.’
‘Resthaven Bellevue Heights residential aged care home, located adjacent to Sturt Gorge in the Adelaide Hills Mount Lofty district, has been the focus of extensive fire safety measures in recent years.’
‘Safety measures in place at this site include “waterwall” sprinklers, fire system water storage tanks and remotely operated pumps, building modification, tree thinning and extensive management within the site and the adjacent natural reserve, non-flammable garden mulch materials, and much more.’
‘We work in consultation with the Department of Environment, Water and Natural Resources regarding best practice in relation to the Sturt Gorge.’
‘Our newest aged care home, Resthaven Aberfoyle Park, which opened in October 2018, is located in the southern Adelaide foothills of the bushfire prone Mount Lofty Ranges district. However, it is situated in a “Bushfire Safer Place”, adjacent to the built up areas of the shopping precinct, schools and the large retirement village next door.’
‘A “Bushfire Safer Place” means an area of generally lower levels of bushfire fuel which is far enough away from continuous bushland areas to reduce the risk of exposure to direct flame or severe radiant heat.’
‘The location of the site was taken into account during building, and the design incorporates materials that comply with the relevant National Construction Codes and Australian Standards.’
‘If the unique circumstance of a bushfire is threatening a Resthaven residential site, we will remain at the site and implement our plan, unless instructed otherwise by the emergency services.’
‘Should an emergency of any type require an evacuation, there are eight other Resthaven residential sites located in the Adelaide metropolitan area, where we can accommodate evacuated residents, should there be such a necessity.’
‘I encourage residents and/or family members who have any concerns or questions to speak with their site Manager.’
For fire danger ratings, restrictions, bans, incidents and more, phone the Bushfire Information Hotline: 1800 362 361.
Resthaven’s residential aged care and in-home care and support services are offered throughout metropolitan Adelaide, the Adelaide Hills, Murraylands, Riverland, Fleurieu, and across the Limestone Coast.