RICHMOND — Those living within a 10-mile radius of the Surry Power Station will no longer be alerted of an emergency via siren beginning Feb. 1.
Alerts will now be sent via text through the Integrated Public Alert and Warning System (IPAWS) and across the Emergency Alert System (EAS) which broadcasts across television and radio stations, according to Dominion Energy. Similar to both Amber and Severe Weather alerts, the change allows for real-time information to be received in the event of an emergency.
“As technology changes, it is important that we take advantage of new opportunities especially when it comes to ensuring the health and safety of the public,” said State Coordinator Shawn Talmadge, VDEM. “Those working behind the scenes to make this transition happen have gone through several rounds of planning, surveys, and research to ensure that this system is optimal for notifying the public of an emergency at these nuclear power stations. Unlike the sirens which simply make a noise, the alerts will direct you on what proactive actions to take so you understand what to do to ensure you and your family are safe.”
Residential and business phones will still receive calls, and plans remain in place to notify recreational areas such as parks and waterways.
For more information visit the Dominion Energy website on the topic.
