December 1st set for testing Oakey’s Community Alert Siren

On December 1 the audible testing of the Community Alert Sirens will take place at both Oakey and Wylahra Grove (Millmerran Estates). The siren runs audible tests, twice a year, June 1 and December 1, at midday.

Oakey residents may have noticed the new Community Alert Siren and its 10 metre high mast on the corner of Beale and Davidson Streets.

Toowoomba Regional Council (TRC) Mayor Paul Antonio said originally installed in the Oakey CBD, the siren has now been moved to a better position to enable the alert to be heard by the community in the higher flood risk zones and alert the community to a major emergency that will impact or likely to impact the community’s safety”.

“Residents are asked to mark these dates on their calendars as a reminder a test is taking place, and to familiarise themselves with the sound of the Siren, and what they need to remember to do in the event the Community Alert Siren has to be activated in the future, Mayor Antonio said.

"Community messaging will be announced leading up to the test but it is advisable to ensure any family and friends in the area are also aware of the test.

"Over the coming week Oakey households will also receive new Community Alert Siren information flyers and magnets. If you have some older information or material on hand, please destroy them.

"Oakey residents are also being encouraged to participate and be actively involved with this testing by providing feedback as to whether or not they have heard the Community Alert Siren. Look out for the cut off section on your flyer, fill it in and drop off to the Oakey Service Centre.

"Residents need to note that when the Community Alert Siren is used, and it is not a test, it is important to remember not to panic and that the community is being alerted to the fact an important warning has been issued.

"The siren uses the same tone for all types of major emergencies. If the siren is sounding for longer than one minute and there is no scheduled testing occurring, it is likely a major emergency is underway and you’ll need to seek further information."

Further emergency information can be sourced through one or more of the following:

Mayor Antonio said the sirens are not a stand-alone system for alerting an at-risk community, and the community should not rely on the siren sounding for all community emergencies alone.

"It is important for individuals and households to be responsible for their own personal safety and protection of their property by taking proactive steps for being prepared for emergencies."

For further information on the warning siren call 131 872 or visit www.tr.qld.gov.au/sirens.