The Emergency Management Department coordinates AV involvement in major cultural and sporting events and prepare for potential multi-casualty situations such as hazardous incidents or an influenza pandemic.
From its base at the Ambulance Emergency Operations Centre, the department provided coordination for AV’s response to the 7 February 2009 Black Saturday bushfires and the preceding heat wave.
Hi-tech tools and other resources at the department’s disposal include the Ambulance Emergency Operations Centre systems, the Command and Communications vehicle, personal protective equipment for use in a potential terrorist attack, multi-purpose welfare shelters, a fleet of Emergency Management vehicles and the Bicycle Response Unit.
AV plays a key part in state and national preparedness for major incidents and has a defined role under the State Emergency Management Arrangements and State Health Emergency Response Plan. The Emergency Management Department undertakes emergency management training and exercises to hone operational skills and capability.
An Emergency Response Plan guides the entire organisation’s response to both small and large incidents.