S.E.W.S.
Standard Emergency Warning Signal (SEWS)
The Standard Emergency Warning Signal (SEWS) is a distinctive 'wailing' siren which may be broadcast on radio, television, or public areas such as shopping centres or sports grounds.
The use of SEWS is intended to attract the listener's attention prior to the broadcast of an important safety message.
SEWS is used in Victoria to alert members of the community that an official emergency announcement is to be made concerning an actual or impending emergency. This will occur on UHF channels 5 and 40
CREST Victoria personnel will activate a 10 second SEWS alarm prior to the broadcast of an emergency warning.
What should I do if I hear SEWS broadcast?
- Stop what you are doing
- Listen carefully to the information provided
- Act as directed
Play the recoding below to hear the SEWS alert.