High-rises dominate the skyline on both sides of the Huangpu River in Shanghai. [Photo by Gao Erqiang/China Daily]

Shanghai has announced plans for a citywide air raid siren test on Sept 21, coinciding with National Defense Education Day. The test will exclude Shanghai Pudong International Airport and Shanghai Hongqiao International Airport.

According to the Shanghai Municipal National Defense Mobilization Office, the test will take place from 11:35 am to 11:58 am. The schedule is as follows:

The test will utilize both fixed and mobile air raid sirens, with live broadcasts on Shanghai Television and updates via the city's emergency alert platforms.

In conjunction with the siren test, a citywide air raid drill will be conducted, involving public evacuation exercises organized by district authorities. These drills aim to be carried out at all communities in the city by the end of the 14th Five-Year Plan (2021-25) period, emphasizing the evacuation of residents from high-rise buildings and crowded public places. Schools will also participate in the test, conducting evacuation drills on Sept 20 to avoid conflicts with the weekend schedule.

The local government has mandated comprehensive preparations for the test, including the maintenance of air raid siren equipment, communication support, and extensive public information campaigns. The effort will involve multiple city departments and media outlets to ensure public awareness and safety during the test.

Source: Shanghai Municipal National Defense Mobilization Office