Annual live siren testing in Redlynch, Brinsmead and Freshwater areas

Council will conduct its annual live siren testing in the areas of Redlynch, Redlynch Valley, Brinsmead and Freshwater on Saturday 19 October between 10am and midday.

During this time, all nine Outdoor Warning Stations (OWS) will be sounded and tested.

This year’s live testing will involve all stations being sounded together initially, followed by individual testing as needed.

While the testing is routine and does not require action from residents, it serves as a critical reminder for everyone in the impact area to review and practice their emergency evacuation plans .

Division 6 Councillor Kristy Vallely emphasised the importance of this annual testing.

“The likelihood of a dam failure is extremely low, but the safety of our community is always our top priority,” Cr Vallely.

“These tests help ensure that our emergency systems are in working order and that residents are familiar with what to do in the unlikely event of an emergency.”

Residents, particularly pet owners, are encouraged to prepare for the testing.

"If your pets are sensitive to loud noises, please consider securing them at home or taking them to a quieter location during the testing period," Cr Valley advised.

This year’s Evacuation Guide includes updated red zone mapping that affects about an additional 1000 properties.

While the risk has not changed, it’s important for residents to check the Guide mapping to ensure they are aware of any changes that may affect them.

“This guide explains how the early warning system works, identifies red zones immediately downstream from the dam, and provides critical information for emergency preparedness,” Cr Vallely said.

Be prepared

To ensure readiness, residents and business owners in the affected areas should take the following five key steps:

Learn about the early warning system and the siren sounds.Determine if you live in a ‘red zone’ immediately downstream from the dam.Identify your nearest evacuation assembly point.Plan the fastest, safest route to the evacuation assembly point.Understand that in the event of an evacuation, walking – not driving – is required. Cairns Disaster Dashboard

The Cairns Disaster Dashboard is a crucial resource for real-time information and advice during disasters. It provides updates on road conditions, weather, flood cameras, fire incidents, service outages, and other emergency information.

For additional advice on preparing for natural disasters, visit Council’s website or follow the Cairns Disaster Group on Facebook.

Residents are also encouraged to register for Cairns Alert via the Cairns Disaster Dashboard homepage. Cairns Alert is an opt-in service that sends critical emergency information to mobile phones via text messages.

For any inquiries or feedback, please email [email protected] or contact the Customer Service team at 1300 69 22 47.