Don't forget that tsunami sirens across the Coromandel and Firth of Thames will sound for their annual test at noon today.

Coromandel's tsunami sirens are fire sirens that wind up and then hold a continuous tone for ten minutes or more, but today the sirens will only hold the tone for between two and three minutes.

Coinciding with the final day of the school term, Civil Defence's Thames Valley Emergency Operating Area office says you will not need to evacuate for the test.

TVEOA will test tsunami sirens in: Cooks Beach, Coromandel Town, Hahei, Kuaotunu, Pauanui, Port Charles, Tairua, Tapu, Thames, Whangapoua, Whangamata and Whitianga.

Turua and Matarangi communities will also sound their sirens at the same time.

But the office also recommends recognising nature's signs for potential tsunami as they are the most effective way to protect yourself, family and loved ones from tsunami.

Nature signs include a violent earthquake that may knock you off your feet, rolling vibrating earthquake that lasts several minutes, sudden or unusual changes in tide height, and loud roaring noises like a jet engine from out at sea.

In a real event make sure you immediately head for high ground or as far inland as possible, and having a personal evacuation plan is vital.

To listen to a previous tsunami siren click here.

For more information about tsunami visit Civil Defence's Thames Valley Emergency Operating Area website at: http://thamesvalleycivildefence.co.nz/index.php/what-to-do-in-a/tsunami