Take the Triple-0 Kids’ Challenge:

If you’re looking for something to entertain the kids this long weekend, here is an entertaining game jam-packed with important messages.

The Triple-O Kids’ Challenge uses colourful, animated characters to provide lessons to children on the confident and appropriate use of Triple Zero.

The game features various scenarios involving police, fire and ambulance services to deliver lessons in safety and covers a variety of topics, such as, escape routes in emergencies, safe meeting places and being able to tell if someone is breathing or not.

It has recently been upgraded to include an extra three scenarios that educate players on the impact of hoax calls, what to do in major bushfires, and how to only call Triple Zero for life-threatening and emergency situations.

This game is designed for children of kindergarten and primary school age and play time is around an hour, but can be played in shorter intervals. Successful completion of a safety scenario generates a 'reward' for children in the form of a print-out or certificate.

Fire & Rescue NSW Assistant Commissioner Mark Whybro said that more than 750,000 games had been played since it first launched.  

“Many children called Triple Zero each year, whether to aid a sick or injured parent, after witnessing a car accident or to report a crime or fire,” said Whybro.

 “This game will teach children about the appropriate use of Triple Zero and give them the confidence in knowing what to do in the event of an emergency.” he said.

The game, which has won national and state public safety awards, has been translated into six languages other than English and has closed captions.

The game can be accessed at primary schools or at home via the website: www.triplezero.gov.au.