Fire Danger: Leaving Early on Extreme/Code Red Days WIth Preschoolers

[Astrid]

Went through the same dilemma the past couple of years. We would just have to drive 20 minutes to get into the city, but then there was the issue of exactly where to go. There is only so much time you can spend at shopping centres etc and the last thing you want to do is have the car parked in a public place when it is loaded with laptops, photos etc. If really pushed I was going to just get a cabin at the local caravan park. It has play equipment, a swimming pool etc. Cheaper than trying to keep two kids entertained for day or two in the city.

Just thankful this year that the kids have school and childcare, so really only have weekend to worry about. Also if need be I could just take DD1 to work if her school is closed.

[fionas]

Yep, I think that's why I like the idea of decamping to Bendigo to Ballarat. Had exactly the same thought re a caravan park Astrid. They are fabulous in terms of having everything you need, especially for kids. We can just potter there in the playground or in the pool, rev up the aircon (which we don't have at home) and I won't have to constantly think of the next thing to waste a couple of hours. It wouldn't be so bad if the girls were a bit older but facing down 8-10 hours out of the house on a 40 degree day is a little bit daunting in practice.

[Astrid]

The only issue this time of year would be finding a vacant cabin, they joys of a tourist place. Thankfully this year I have some better friendships in the city, so I know there are places I can hang out if I really need to.

[fionas]

Yep, I think anywhere coastal would be a push unfortunately. Infact, if I could get anywhere coastal I probably would have used it as an excuse to go away today to trial my plan and have a day/night at the beach. I've been doing a bit of checking around and Ballarat seems to be a safe bet in terms of vacancies and there's three caravan parks there so plenty of choice (plus loads of motels).