ESQUIMALT - CFB Esquimalt just installed this Mass Notification System, which is scheduled to go through testing the first week of February. The poles are located in Dockyard, Naden and Work Point.
The base says the speakers and poles are designed to survive a magnitude 8.0 earthquake, and can be programmed to issue warnings for emergencies including hazardous materials, environmental threats and tsunamis.
Tests are slated for Monday February 2 to Friday February 6 between 8am and 4pm. Beyond that, one-minute monthly tests are scheduled for 11am on the first Wednesday of each month.
These systems provide four different siren tones:
- Test tone (alternating)
- Evacuation tone (low to high tone)
- Shelter in place tone (repeated blast of single tone)
- All-clear tone (similar to Westminster chime)
CFB Esquimalt says since these sounds can't be confined to its property, it's advising you not to be concerned during these times.
To hear the tones, visit the Maritime Forces Pacific website and click on 'MNS'.
