Media release

October 1, 2009
Tsunami warning siren system passes the test

Waitakere civil defence leaders are very happy with the local emergency response to the recent Samoan earthquake and tsunami threat.

“The immediate response by the coastal communities yesterday proved the value of our tsunami warning siren system,” said the council’s Emergency Services Committee Chairman, Councillor Battersby.

“The uncertainty of the size of the tsunami threat and the very short time available to alert our coastal communities is a real challenge for our civil defence organisation.

The alert signal was activated at around 10.30am yesterday, advising the public to clear the beaches, listen for further information on radio and television and prepare to evacuate if necessary.

“While other councils in the region require the assistance of the police to clear beaches, we were able to push a button and along with assistance from community volunteers, have our beaches cleared very quickly,” said Cr Battersby.

Civil Defence Controller Darryl Griffin praised the support of community volunteers on the day.

“Having a siren system in place that we have total confidence in is one thing, but we still need people on the ground to assist.

“The assistance provided by surf club staff, Auckland Regional Council park rangers, the emergency services and other community volunteer leaders was invaluable,” said Mr Griffin.

Yesterday’s siren activation was the first since they were installed two years ago, other than the six monthly tests, the most recent of which just last Sunday.

People can find out more about the tsunami siren system, including what the different signals are for and what they sound like, go to the council’s website, www.waitakere.govt.nz or its 24-hour call centre, 839 0400.

ENDS

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