30 September 2009

Timely reminder to register for tsunami evacuation alerts, says NSCC   

This morning’s tsunami threat was a timely reminder that people in low-lying areas should register with the North Shore City Council’s tsunami warning system, says the city's Civil Defence Emergency Management (CDEM) manager David Keay.

“The Ministry of Civil Defence and Emergency Management has now lifted its warning, but this morning there was a very real possibility that a tsunami would reach the North Shore, “he says.

People living on land which is less than 15 metres (vertically) above low tide mark are encouraged to register with the council’s telephone alert system.  Workplaces on low ground are also advised to register.

In the event of a tsunami evacuation warning, people registered on the system would receive an automated phone call warning them to move to higher ground immediately.

Mr Keay says that people who want to register should call the council Actionline 09 486 8600. Each person who registers is asked to specify a phone number, which can be either a mobile or landline.

Mr Keay says that the devastation and loss of life which has occurred in Samoa and American Samoa demonstrates very clearly that tsunami can occur anywhere, any time.  “Our sincere sympathy goes to the people who suffered the impact of the tsunami today,” he says.

ENDS

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