The immediate nationwide adoption of all-hazard sirens into the design principles of an integrated safety management system for New Zealand is deemed imperative by Grey Power Federation NZ.
Grey Power national president, Gayle Chambers says such sirens are vital for the enhanced safety of all citizens but are particularly important for at risk seniors who are hard of hearing or not sufficiently familiar with modern digital technology, mobile phones or modern emergency apps presently used to sound alerts.
“As natural disasters and emergencies become more frequent and severe, the Federation believes a robust and universally accessible alert system is imperative to safeguard all citizens, especially vulnerable seniors.”
Although Mrs Chambers welcomes the recent government announcement to overhaul New Zealand’s emergency management system, she says, as yet, details of reforms are sketchy.
“At this stage, all-hazard sirens do not appear to be mentioned so we will continue to advocate for their inclusion in a nationwide system.”
Demographically, the towns of Pauanui/Tairua house the oldest of populations on the Coromandel Peninsula. Whitianga, the most identifiable of vulnerable places to a Tsunami event, houses some 7800 permanent citizens of which 65% are over the age of 65.
All-hazard sirens are loud, unmistakable sirens used to signal impending danger and ensure everyone within range, regardless of their technological proficiency or hearing ability, receive timely alerts.
Such systems have been effectively used in numerous countries, and in New Zealand regions, such as Northland, to alert citizens of imminent threats, including natural disasters – tsunamis, earthquakes, flooding and volcanic disturbances.
Because seniors, particularly those living alone with no nearby family to assist, are at an increased risk during emergencies, Grey Power sees the nationwide use of all-hazard sirens as a game changer.
“Currently, the country features a patchwork of local and regional safety emergency systems which can lead to confusion and gaps in coverage,” Mrs Chambers says. “By implementing and standardising the system across the country all citizens would receive clear and consistent alerts allowing them to quickly take precautions.
“Standardisation is crucial during widespread emergencies; coordinated and uniform messaging can save lives.”
NOTE: See further article on Government safety management announcement.
Call to Action: The Government needs to accept the reports on Civil Defence capability which clearly state that safety management system(s) within New Zealand are not fit for purpose.
Grey Power New Zealand urges the Prime Minister, Christopher Luxon to support the adoption of a national safety management system inclusive of the use of all-hazard sirens.
By prioritising the safety of seniors and ensuring all individuals, regardless of their hearing ability or technological skills, have access to timely emergency alerts, a safer and more resilient society will be created.
GPNZ is dedicated to enhancing public safety through advocacy, education, and the promotion of effective emergency management practices.
For more information, please contact Bill Obers, Portfolio Chair, Emergency Management – zone7rep@greypower.co.nz
