Emergency sirens – Sunwater

Sunwater has emergency sirens installed at six locations:

Biloela (Callide Dam)
Inglewood (Coolmunda Dam)
Emerald (Fairbairn Dam)
North Eton (Kinchant Dam)
Coringa (Paradise Dam)
Pinnacle (Teemburra Dam)

These sirens will only sound if the dam is in danger of failing. They will not sound if water is spilling or being released due to heavy rainfall.

Fast facts

Sirens are 14 metres tall and have speakers, power and communication systems
They are tested silently every week
The sound level ranges from 70-110 decibels (somewhere between a vacuum cleaner and a car horn)
They run on solar power with battery back-up

What is a dam failure?

A dam failure happens when all or part of a dam collapses, or when a large amount of water is released without control. It may be caused by:

large earthquakes that crack the dam wall or embankment
erosion of the surrounding land
external damage such as a strong impact or terrorist actions.

What will the siren sound like?

There are two parts:

a rising and falling wail
a voice announcement: ‘Dam emergency, dam emergency, this is not a drill. ACT NOW!’

Will I hear the siren?

Wind direction, landscape and ambient noise can affect how well the siren is heard. Depending on where you are, you might not hear it. But remember the emergency siren is just one way we will alert you if a dam is in danger of failing.

What should I do if I hear the siren?

Act immediately
Check your phone for alerts telling you what to do
Ensure everyone at your property knows about the warning
Head towards suggested evacuation areas. If you can’t get to these, head away from low lying areas
Check on neighbours and friends who may need assistance
Keep your mobile phone with you

Read the transcript of the “What do I need to do if I hear a dam emergency siren?” video.