EXTREME heat and fire danger saw the closure of several schools across the region yesterday.
The Mallee’s first code red day since 2010 forced early childhood centres, primary and secondary schools to close their doors, as advised by the Department of Education.
Beverford District Primary School, Cohuna Secondary College, Kerang Christian College, Koondrook Primary School, Lake Charm Primary School, Manangatang P-12 College, Nullawil Primary School, Quambatook Group School, Son Centre Christian College, Swan Hill College – FLO Campus, Tyrrell College, Ultima Primary School, Woorinen District Primary School and Wycheproof P-12 College were among those that were forced to close.
Tyrrell College school principal Mark Corrie said he was notified at 7pm on Wednesday night by the Department of Education that the school had to close the following day.
“We got a code red phone call that said what emergency management processes had to be put in place,” Mr Corrie said.
“There was a set process all schools in danger had to go through of informing students, staff and their families.”
Mr Coorie said the day of closure resulted in rescheduling exams and cancellation of an organised outdoor education camp.
“Everything had to be rescheduled and we cancelled an outdoor education camp to Green Lake that will now go ahead as an excursion,” he said.
The school principal said while extreme heat was a nuisance, all emergency measures were put in place for a reason.
“We have to take into consideration that they’re not adults, they’re kids and we can’t have them outside in extreme heat and wind,” Mr Corrie said.
“A tree or anything could fall and it’s the school’s duty of care to ensure all students and staff remain safe.”
Mr Corrie said due to short notice, all students were expected to stay at home and return to school the following day.
“We strongly encourage everyone to be safe, listen to emergency warnings and stay hydrated,” he said.
