The federal government must be applauded for its efforts in formulating a broad emergency alert system (AusAlert) integrated across the states to ensure every possible step is taken to maximally protect citizens at risk from terrorism or natural disasters (“Fears alert system a dud”, ‘, Sunday Telegraph, 19/7). People panic because of uncertainty during emergencies, leading to increased morbidity and mortality, so immediate explanation and guidance can be consoling. Emergency Management Minister Kristy McBain might find valuable insights by studying safety guidelines and alarm utilisation in hospital operating suites, the location where alarms are used the most to save lives. The ideal alarm model is a single purpose monitor, with zero risk of false alarms, instantaneous response to triggering, independent on human input and associated electrical or gas supply failure. The alarm itself must be both auditory and visual, becoming impossible to ignore. Applying these principals, the minister’s new system must be independently tested against existing practice and proven to be superior by evidence-based criteria. All state agencies are obviously committed to best practice in disaster management and have much to offer in devising ideal alarm protocols with federal government input. With our amazing technologies, mass messaging of mobile phones at times of crises must be a useful tool to harness co-operation and serve the greater good. Alan Sexton, North Parramatta 26July2026
