The Bay of Plenty Civil Defence are alerting the public to sort out an emergency plan for their family, while the organisation test its communication systems next week.

Emergency Management Bay of Plenty Director Clinton Naude says the test is happening during a school day on Monday, July 3, at 10am.

'It's a good reminder that an emergency can happen at any time and people need to be prepared regardless. Think about if you were stuck at home, couldn't get home or had to leave home in a hurry.”

The alerting systems are tested twice a year to ensure everything will run smoothly in the event of a natural and manmade disaster.

The test will include text alerts, social media as well as fixed and vehicle mounted mobile sirens in specific areas.

On Monday residents should expect fixed sirens in the eastern Bay of Plenty and vehicle mounted sirens in Waihi Beach, Athenree, Bowentown, Pukehina, Lake Tarawera, Kawerau, Whakatane and Opotiki.

As well as text alerts and social media updates on facebook.com/bopcivildefence and twitter.com/bopcivildefence

'These days' people get their information from different places and no technology is 100 per cent failsafe or equally useful in all conditions and emergencies. In a real event we would try to reach people with a combination of all means available.”

He also advises people to not rely solely on technology.

'No system replaces the need for people to pay attention to natural warnings.

To register for text alerts, or for more information on how to get prepared, visit www.bopcivildefence.govt.nz or text the two letters for the area you live.

For tips and advice on emergency planning visit www.happens.nz