WA to use national Emergency Alert system

• Move to national phone messaging system for emergencies
• Emergency Alert to be operational for 2012-13 bushfire season
• Includes location-based technology for receipt when travelling

Emergency Services Minister Troy Buswell today announced that Western Australian authorities would this year begin using the national Emergency Alert phone messaging system.

Mr Buswell said WA would begin the transition process to the new system, which would be operational before the 2012-13 bushfire season.

"The decision to adopt the national Emergency Alert system follows a functional and cost review of the StateAlert system by the State Emergency Management Committee," he said.

"The bottom line is there are significant benefits to move across to the national system rather than continuing to maintain the StateAlert system."

The Minister said the national Emergency Alert system would deliver improvements in the capacity, flexibility and technology of distributing messages.

"Under the Emergency Alert system there is the capacity to deliver more messages.  It can prioritise messages closer to the emergency threat, making it easier for operational staff to operate the system," he said.

"Emergency Alert will also have location-based technology available, starting from later this year, which will allow people travelling through an area under threat to receive messages."

Mr Buswell said despite the improvements under the Emergency Alert system, local residents needed to remain vigilant and should not wait for a message before taking the appropriate action to protect themselves and their families.

"Take heed of warnings from authorities, whether they come through the radio, direct phone messages or online but if you see danger around you, take action immediately to stay safe and call Triple Zero (000) in a life-threatening situation to alert the authorities," he said.

People registered to StateAlert system under the 'opt in' function will soon be advised of the changes to the new emergency warning system so they can make alternative plans.

     Fact File

• More information about Emergency Alert can be found at http://www.emergencyalert.gov.au/Emergency Alert to be used when life or property under imminent threat
• Direct phone messages through Emergency Alert designed to complement other warning systems during an emergency

Minister's office - 6552 6400