‘We all play a roll in being prepared, it is our responsibility’

June 3, 2022

‘We all play a roll in being prepared, it is our responsibility’

Devonport, Auckland. PHOTO: Bernard Spragg.

Auckland Emergency Management are urging North Shore residents to be better prepared for a tsunami.

AEM principal science advisor Angela Doherty says it is up to us to plan evacuation strategies and that preparation is a huge part of our responsibility.

“When disaster strikes residents need to have a plan in case of emergency,” she says.

“AEM centres are open to help inform residents when a tsunami hits but are only a safety net".

AEM head of resilience Melanie Hutton, says Auckland has not yet experienced a tsunami where land has had to be evacuated and preparation is now more important than ever.

“We have identified community halls around Auckland to be used as emergency hubs but we need to remind people that this is only for those in desperate need,” says Hutton.

AEM initiative ‘Get Ready’ provides a printable emergency plan template that allows residents to be one step ahead when disaster strikes.

Northcote resident Tyler Walker says he doubts North Shore residents will have an emergency plan for a tsunami, including those in his own household.

“In the case of a tsunami I would drive with my partner as far north or somewhere central to get away from the shore,” he says.

“I was not aware of the emergency plans, and it is actually extremely helpful to know.

"The more people know the less likely for causalities to be high,” says Walker.

AEM want to ensure North Shore residents to play their role and take responsibly in preparation for any unexpected disaster, including a tsunami.

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