(a) The ACT Fire Brigade Fire Education program commenced in 1998. The program was sourced from the Metropolitan Fire Brigade, who are acknowledged for the original development, and then modified for local content.

(b) The department has not commissioned the design of any additional fire prevention programs.

(c) All ACT Government primary schools participated in the program in 2002.

(d) There are five parts to the one hour program. They are:

Good fires/Bad Fires - What makes them different

Firefighters are your friends

Stop, Drop and Roll - what to do if your clothes catch on fire

Get Down Low and Go, Go, Go - what to do if you are in a smoke filled area

000 Emergency - the concept of the 000 emergency phone call is explained.

(e) The ACT Fire Brigade presents the training.

(f) The training is not compulsory.

(g) The fire safety program is delivered to all kindergarten students and some year 1 students.

(h) The focus of the fire education program is to encourage the children involved to gain a greater respect for fire by education and awareness, and to understand the consequences of the misuse of fire.

It should also be noted that A Critical Incident Planning for Schools Policy was published in 1997 and reviewed in November 1999. Principals have the responsibility for preparation, training, practice drills and procedures in the event of an emergency , including fires. Under the policy schools are required to undertake emergency evacuation drills at least twice a year.

(i) The ACT Fire Brigade as part of its fire prevention strategy began, in May 1999, its Juvenile Fire Awareness and Intervention Program. This program delivers tailored fire awareness sessions to children between the ages of 3 to 16 who are already exhibiting dangerous firelighting behaviours.

(j) No, the environmental behaviour of fires is not part of the program.

(1) How many residents are currently on the public housing waiting list;