Media alert from St John regarding earthquake (24 April)

St John has had no reports of injuries or damage from this afternoon’s earthquake near Kaikoura.

We have received no phone calls to our Clinical Control Centre in Christchurch as a result of the quakes.

It’s important for people to stay calm in these situations; there is no need to panic.

However, we do encourage people to make sure they have their emergency kits prepared and ready, and also to keep in contact with friends and relatives, especially those who may be frail, elderly or ill.

Further information about emergency preparedness can be found at the Ministry of Civil Defence and Emergency Management website: http://www.civildefence.govt.nz/