A new tool for safety on Port of Tacoma tideflats

The Tacoma Fire Department is poised to begin implementing a new system designed to provide an area-wide audible alert with emergency instructions to those working outside or in loud industrial environments, such as the Port of Tacoma tideflats, in the event of emergencies like lahars, tsunamis, chemical spills, and floods.

The Port Early Warning System (PEWS) will be operated out of the City of Tacoma’s Fire and Emergency Communication Center. It is funded through grants acquired by the Port of Tacoma through the Department of Homeland Security.

The Port Early Warning System (PEWS) is designed to provide an area-wide audible alert with emergency instructions to those working outside or in loud industrial environments, such as the Port of Tacoma tide flats, in the event of emergencies such as lahars, tsunamis, chemical spills, and floods. (PHOTO COURTESY TACOMA FIRE DEPARTMENT)

The City of Tacoma’s Emergency Management Department will offer two educational seminars this weekend to inform the public of the new system. The seminars will be held at the Greater Tacoma Convention and Trade Center, located at 1500 Broadway, on Sat., Jan. 25 between 10 a.m. and 11:30 a.m., and between 1 p.m. and 2:30 p.m.