Deaf to get emergency advice

The deaf and hearing-impaired will get potentially life-saving advice from a DVD on emergency planning launched today, Civil Defence Minister John Carter says.

The DVD was captioned and information was provided in sign language.

"Public education is essential to ensure New Zealand is resilient to the number of natural hazards we are vulnerable to including earthquakes, tsunami, volcanic activity and weather related emergencies," Mr Carter said.

Minister for Disability Issues Tariana Turia the DVD would encourage those who were deaf or hearing impaired to plan ahead for their specific requirements in an emergency.

That included developing an emergency plan with friends, family and neighbours.

The DVD was part of a wider public education programme which included the Get Ready Get Thru website, radio and television advertising, brochures and the What's the Plan Stan? education resource for primary schools.

- NZPA