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The V.I. Territorial Emergency Management Agency said this week it will begin monthly testing and evaluation of the territory's forty-four tsunami sirens beginning at 11:00am on Thursday, January 19 on all four islands, the local agency made known via release.
The test will include a sixty second warning tone, VITEMA said, and follow-up voice announcements will only take place if there were to be an actual emergency event.
The tsunami siren testing program which will take place on the First Thursday of each month, with two main purposes. The testing program is designed to alert individuals within ¼ mile of each siren’s location and may be enhanced or reduced in range by existing winds.
VITEMA said the second purpose is to afford both residents and visitors alike the opportunity to become familiar with the tone, and the procedures that should be taken in the event of an actual tsunami. Tsunami’s risks apply to all areas of the territory that are at or near sea level, and are not just restricted to beaches.
According to the release, volunteers are needed to assist with the Territorial Siren Testing Initiative. The volunteers would need to be about a block away from the siren pole itself and complete a short form as to volume and clarity of the messages being broadcast. To volunteer on St Croix, contact Regina Browne, Deputy Director of Planning and Preparedness at 340-422-1350.
To volunteer on St Thomas/St John/Water Island, contact Shantelle BullyEddy, Training and Exercise Coordinator at 340-774-2244 ext. 6823.
“The testing of our Tsunami Warning Sirens on a continuing basis is an important part of building confidence throughout the territory as well as educating individuals located near the sirens on their capabilities as well as limitations. It is beneficial to residents and visitors alike to Get to ‘Know the Tone,’ and what to do in the case of an actual tsunami event,” stated VITEMA Director Daryl Jaschen.
