The new colour-codes for different emergencies to be launched with new emergency Early Warning System (EWS).
PHILIPSBURG--The Office of Disaster Management (ODM), in collaboration with the Department of Communication (DCOMM), will launch a public awareness campaign today, Monday, August 3, to inform the community about St. Maarten’s newly developed Early Warning System (EWS).
The campaign will educate residents about the country’s new mobile cell broadcast system ahead of its official testing, which will take place at a later date. It will also introduce the public to the standard emergency messages and colour coding that have been developed for the system.
Information about the EWS will be shared through Public Service Announcements on SXMGOV Radio 107.9 FM, YouTube videos on the Government of St. Maarten YouTube channel, Facebook.com/SXMGOV, and the government’s website, www.sintmaartengov.org.
The campaign will explain the Common Alerting Protocols (CAP) used for earthquakes, tsunamis, flooding, storm surge, and tropical storms and hurricanes that pose an imminent threat to the country.
According to a press release, the EWS was developed as part of government’s ongoing efforts to strengthen national preparedness and community resilience.
St. Maarten faces multiple hazards, including hurricanes and tropical storms, heavy rainfall and flooding, earthquakes, tsunamis, fires, and public health emergencies. Because these events can occur with little warning, the government says timely and accurate communication is essential to protecting lives and property.
Once operational, the Early Warning System will allow authorities to send real-time emergency alerts directly to mobile phones across the country. The alerts will provide critical information about potential threats and clear instructions on the actions the public should take.
The system is also expected to improve the government’s ability to quickly reach residents and visitors during emergencies by ensuring everyone receives the same verified information at the same time.
The release notes that the cell broadcast test is currently compatible with Android phones. Technical issues affecting iPhones are still being addressed.
Once fully operational, the EWS is expected to serve as a vital communication tool by providing timely alerts and guidance during emergencies.
