Emergency alert system to be tested at Devonport
Residents near Devonport Dockyard and Cattedown fuel depot to receive test alerts next week
On 17th June, a routine exercise will test public notification systems in the event of an emergency at Devonport Royal Dockyard and Cattedown fuel depot.
The test is part of the Devonport Off-site Emergency Plan (DOSEP), designed to protect the public in the unlikely event of a radiation incident.
Entities including the Ministry of Defence, Babcock International Group, emergency services, Plymouth City Council, and the UK Health Security Agency will coordinate efforts as outlined in DOSEP.
Testing Public Notification Systems
The exercise will involve sending test alerts via text message or email to individuals living near the sites.
Residents receiving these alerts do not need to respond or take any action.
Those interested in receiving future emergency alerts can register through Plymouth City Council’s website.
Additional Safety Measures
Further measures in DOSEP include distributing stable iodine tablets to areas potentially affected by an incident, which protects against radioactive iodine.
The exercise will simulate distribution, with leaflets posted to households, although recipients need not take action upon receiving the leaflet.
The Detailed Emergency Planning Zone, an area extending 1.5 km from the submarine berths, includes parts of Torpoint and Wilcove in Cornwall.
These residents will receive an updated booklet outlining emergency procedures, with more information available on Plymouth City Council’s website.