Where do you go if you need to evacuate?

In times of emergencies when welfare agencies are unable to reach Iluka, the Local Emergency Operations Controller (LEOCON) may activate the Iluka Community Managed Evacuation Centre (CMEC). This centre will be managed by the ICOPE Emergency Action Team (EAT).

The Iluka CMEC is a vital facility that provides a safe haven and essential services for individuals and families during times of crisis. It is designed to support the Iluka and Woombah communities when evacuation is necessary due to severe weather events, natural disasters, or other emergencies that pose a threat to the safety and well-being of Iluka and Woombah communities. The CMEC may be located at the Iluka Community Hall, 54 Spenser Street. If Iluka Community Hall is considered not appropriate as an evacuation centre by the LEOCON, the secondary CMEC at Club Iluka, 75-79 Spenser Street may be activated. Always refer to the advice offered by emergency services including evacuation warnings and orders. If you are frail, have mobility issues or medical conditions that will impact your ability to evacuate quickly, consider leaving early or relocating to friends or family that can assist you. Always follow the direction of authorities during an emergency.

Who will run it?

The CMEC will be operated and managed by the ICOPE EAT, consisting of dedicated volunteers. ICOPE will endeavour to work closely with local authorities, emergency services, welfare agencies and community organisations with the aim of ensuring a coordinated and effective response in times of need.

However, as volunteers living in Iluka, ICOPE members may be equally affected by the emergency event. Whilst ICOPE volunteers will endeavour to provide the best possible care and information there may be times when this might not always be possible.

How will it be run?

The CMEC aims to follow a comprehensive and structured operational plan to provide essential services and support to evacuees. The key aspects of its operation include:

Activation and Set-Up: The LEOCON will determine when the CMEC needs to be activated based on the severity and nature of the emergency. The ICOPE EAT will aim to swiftly set up the centre, ensuring that all necessary facilities and resources are in place.

Registration and Coordination: Upon arrival at the CMEC, evacuees will be guided through a registration process to ensure their safety and well-being. ICOPE personnel will endeavour to coordinate with local authorities to collect necessary information, provide updates, and communicate important instructions. All information collected at the CMEC remains confidential. (See Disclaimer: Personal Information Collection at the Community Managed Evacuation Centre here)

Shelter and Accommodation: The CMEC will aim to provide temporary shelter and accommodation to meet the basic needs of evacuees. This includes bedding, restroom facilities, and a safe environment for individuals and families. ICOPE personnel will aim to assist in allocating and managing available spaces.

Food and Water: The CMEC will endeavour to have provisions for providing meals, snacks, and clean drinking water to evacuees.

First Aid Support: The CMEC will aim to have basic first aid services delivered by volunteers with current first aid certification. It is your responsibility to bring all necessary medications with you to the CMEC but in times of stress these can be forgotten, therefore, ICOPE will endeavour to make all necessary attempts to access prescription medications, and coordinate with emergency medical teams if required.

Communication and Information: ICOPE will endeavour to provide regular updates to evacuees, keeping them informed about the status of the emergency, any changes in the situation, and progress towards their safe return home. Communication channels, such as notice boards, public announcements, and liaisons, will aim to be established.

Support and Comfort: The CMEC aims to create a supportive and comforting environment for evacuees. A number of ICOPE EAT volunteers have undertaken Psychological First Aid training and will aim to offer emotional support. ICOPE and support organisations will also aim to provide essential items such as blankets and hygiene products.

Security and Safety: The safety and security of evacuees is paramount at the CMEC. ICOPE will endeavour to implement necessary security measures to ensure the well-being of everyone within the facility.