25 November 2020
Leading into summer and potential flood season, Southern Downs Regional Council will once again conduct routine testing of its Flood Emergency Warning Systems at Killarney Police Station on Ivy Street on Wednesday 2 December 2020 between 9am and 12pm.
During recent annual testing in October, engineers determined that the Killarney siren was in need of upgraded parts. To ensure that the newly installed parts are in working order, a second routine test will be conducted.
The siren will be audible for between 915 metres and 1,280 metres depending on weather conditions.
During the testing residents will hear the following pre-recorded test message:
Attention. Attention. This is a test of the public warning system. I repeat this is only a test.
Residents will hear a wailing tone similar to that of a commercial fire alarm.
Southern Downs Regional Council Mayor Vic Pennisi said that these upgrades are an excellent example of why annual tests are done.
“The engineers in charge of the warning systems do daily silent testing, but the annual audible test is just as important. The only way for the engineers to determine if the siren is loud enough or clear enough is to conduct these tests,” said Mayor Pennisi.
“It is great news to know that these audible tests are working and helping us keep our emergency infrastructure in top notch condition.
“I ask Killarney residents to share this notification with their friends and neighbours to make sure everyone knows about the testing. And I would like to thank residents for their patience as we test critical upgrades.”
Council emphasises to Killarney residents that the activation of the test message does not imply that the townships are under any immediate threat of flash flooding. However, any activation of the siren outside the stated times indicates a genuine emergency warning to the community.
The message in an emergency is:
Attention. Attention. This is a flood warning announcement. Avoid low lying areas. Move to higher ground now. I repeat move to higher ground now.
Public information sessions about the Flood Emergency Warning Systems have previously been held in Killarney and it is important that the community is aware of the warning system and what to do when they activate. If residents have any questions they are encouraged to contact Council.