Hopefully you’ll never need to put this knowledge into practise but in an emergency there two vital pieces of information that are required when calling Triple Zero (000) firstly, where is the emergency and secondly, what is the nature of the emergency.

This can be a little tricky and potentially life threatening if you happen to be visiting an area you are not completely familiar with and as Docklands continues in its development and bringing in new visitors all the time, the installation of alphanumeric markers are a welcome addition to the Emergency Services map. These unique markers will allow 000 call takers to pinpoint exact locations in an emergency, saving time and ultimately lives.

The Emergency Markers are an initiative of the Emergency Services Telecommunications Authority (ESTA) they are easily identifiable alphanumeric signs, meaning they display both letters and numbers. They look like a number plate with a green background and white text; they are spaced at regular intervals to identify the closest access point.

The alphanumeric identifier is linked to ESTA’s computer assisted dispatch system and specifies the relevant location, GPS coordinates, road access route or navigational data for the expedient dispatch of emergency services.

The markers have been recently installed at regular intervals at Victoria Harbour, Waterfront City and Yarra’s Edge and have been active in Alexandra Gardens and Birrarung Marr. The markers have also been installed along the popular Tan running track by the City of Melbourne.
www.esta.vic.gov.au