Misconceptions on Civil Defence

Press, Volume CXV, Issue 33776, 24 February 1975, Page 16

Misconceptions on Civil Defence

There was misconception, at times, in the highest circles about the role of the Civil Defence Organisation, the civil defence officer for metropolitan Christchurch (Mr R. W. Waters) told members of the Waimairi County Council on Saturday.

This, he said, was illustrated hy an official statement during the firemen’s dispute that civil defence might run the service. Civil defence just did not have the capacity to produce men capable of manning sophisticated fire fighting equipment.

“We can, if required, find manpower to fight a scrub fire,” said Mr Waters. “This sort of statement does not help the public. Five thousand civil defence members are not hovering at 3000 ft ready to drop in at any time. This was never intended.”

The guardians of public safety were, unquestionably, the police, said Mr Waters. When they could not cope, and felt that the co-operation of the public was needed, local bodies were required to create a civil defence emergency.

The organisation hoped that the public knew the basic rules to follow in the event of an emergency. If the public wanted help, or could help, they should report to the nearest sector post.

“I think the public are aware of the basic rules, but they need constant reminding.” said Mr Waters. The council’s chairman (Mr D. B. Rich) said it was disconcerting to know that the public were not fully aware of what was expected. The New Zealand Broadcasting Corporation had refused to give spot time on television for information purposes. Mr Waters said that there was a need for a more distinctive warning system. In Christchurch and elsewhere, so manv organisations used sirens that the civil defence warning might be misunderstood. An apnroach had been made to the Government, but; no direct decision had been; made.

“It is a problem when time is not on your side,” said Mr Waters. “The Darwin disaster is a classic example. How do you warn people by radio at 2 a.m.? There should be some distinct warning, and it should be given a trial at least once a year to inform the public.” The council, on its annual inspection, visited the new civil defence headquarters in the Manchester Street car parking building. I