Melbourne security: Be alert but not alarmed, say police, as CBD emergency speakers are tested

BE ALERT but not alarmed in the city on Tuesday, say police, as Melbourne’s emergency warning system is put to the test at 65 locations across the CBD.

AN alarm that would help pedestrians avoid danger during Bourke Street-style rampages or terror attacks will be tested in Melbourne on Tuesday.

The alerts will sound on speakers at 65 locations across the CBD and extra police will be on the streets throughout the morning.

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The warnings will sound for five minutes from 11am.

North West Metro Region Assistant Commissioner Stephen Leane said the new tool enabled police to quickly alert the community of imminent risks.

There are 65 sets of speakers in the city. Picture: Josie Hayden

Assistant Commissioner Stephen Leane. Picture: Stuart McEvoy

“There is no cause for panic (when the alarm sounds),” Mr Leane said.

“The test of all 65 speakers across the city will run for ­approximately five minutes and the message transmitted will include a warning signal which clearly notifies the public that it is a test only.

“We will then conduct zone testing in different areas across the CBD until 11.30am, starting east of the CBD then moving to the west and southern parts of the city.”

The speakers would alert people in the event of incidents such as the Bourke St massacre. Picture: Tony Gough

He said it was just one of the options police would use to communicate with the public during an emergency.

A total of 190 speakers are being installed at 95 locations.