Residents living near Pollsmoor Prison in Tokai are being given advance notice of a change that may soon become part of their weekly routine; the testing of the prison’s escape and incident alarm.
Information shared by local authorities and outlined in a reporting carried by The South African indicates that the alarm, which has not been activated for several years, will now be tested on a regular basis as part of updated safety and preparedness measures.
Ward 51 councillor Carolynne Franklin said the alarm will be tested once a week, every Wednesday, at around midday. The tests, she stressed, are planned and controlled, and do not signal an emergency.
Residents in surrounding neighbourhoods have been urged to remain calm should they hear the siren.
The intention, Franklin explained, is to ensure that systems are functional and that both officials and nearby communities are familiar with how the alarm sounds, should it ever need to be used in a real incident.
Franklin thanked residents for their patience and cooperation, noting that the decision to resume testing follows years of the alarm not being activated at all.
She said the move forms part of broader efforts to improve safety readiness and avoid confusion during actual emergencies.
In a further step aimed at transparency, Franklin has also asked Pollsmoor Prison to share its 2026 shooting range schedule ahead of time.
This request is meant to prevent unnecessary concern among residents who may hear loud noises during training exercises.
Separately, residents have also been informed of changes to infrastructure around the prison. The Glenbrae Avenue gate off Tokai Road is currently being relocated onto Pollsmoor Prison property.
According to Ward 71 News, the relocation is expected to reduce disruption and frustration for residents who regularly use the road, particularly during periods of restricted access.
Residents are encouraged to stay informed and to share the information with neighbours who may be unfamiliar with the new testing schedule. Officials have reiterated that the weekly alarm tests are precautionary and form part of routine safety management.
Further updates, including details on shooting range activities and infrastructure changes, will be communicated as they become available.
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