ANNUAL live siren testing in the Redlynch Valley will occur over the weekend and Cairns Regional Council has reminded residents it is a test, not an official evacuation.
Residents in Redlynch, Brinsmead and Freshwater are advised all nine sirens will be sounded and tested multiple times during this period.
Division 6 Councillor Kristy Valley said that while residents did not need to take any action during the testing, it was a timely reminder to have a household emergency plan in place.
“While the likelihood of a dam failure is extremely low, council’s priority is always focused on the safety of our community and our visitors,” she said.
“Testing the sirens helps raise awareness and ensures that residents are prepared for any unlikely situation.
“It also helps to familiarise residents with the sound of the warning system, as well as talk to their family and friends about what they would do in the case of an emergency.”
Cr Valley also encouraged dog owners to prepare for the annual siren testing.
“Make sure your furry friends are secured at home and can’t escape, or if they are likely to react to the noise consider taking them to a friend’s house, dog park or other area away from the noise.”
Residents are encouraged to familiarise themselves with the evacuation procedures and their individual emergency action plan.
The Copperlode Falls Dam Emergency Action Plan can be viewed via the ‘Copperlode Dam’ button at the Cairns Disaster Dashboard.
“Every household in Redlynch, Brinsmead and Freshwater should have received a hard copy of the Copperlode Dam evacuation guide,” Cr Valley said.
“The guide explains how the early warning system works, maps the ‘red zones’ that are immediately downstream from the dam and evacuation points, and provides information about emergency alert services.”
The Cairns Disaster Dashboard is your go-to place for information and advice during a disaster.
You can check the dashboard for updates on road conditions, weather, flood cameras, fire incidents, service outages and other emergency information.
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