Naxxar Residents Return Home After False Alarm: ‘We’re Just Glad It’s Over’

NAXXAR, Malta – The eerie silence that enveloped Triq il-Kbira in Naxxar last week was shattered by the sudden wail of sirens. Residents, many still in their pyjamas, were ordered to evacuate their homes. The cause? A suspected building collapse that never was. Today, relief was palpable as residents were finally allowed to return home.

False Alarm or Near Miss?

Last Thursday, around 7:30 AM, a passerby reported a suspected collapse at a block of flats in Triq il-Kbira. The police and Civil Protection Department (CPD) swiftly responded, evacuating around 200 residents from five buildings. However, upon inspection, it turned out to be a false alarm. The ‘collapse’ was merely a section of damaged wall that had given way, posing no immediate danger to the buildings’ structural integrity.

“It was a false alarm, but we’re not saying it wasn’t a serious situation,” said Inspector Mario Xuereb of the Naxxar Police Station. “We had to err on the side of caution. Better safe than sorry.”

Residents: ‘We Were Scared, But We’re Glad It’s Over’

For many residents, the evacuation was a traumatic experience. “I was in the shower when I heard the sirens,” said Maria Grech, a 65-year-old retiree. “I didn’t even have time to get dressed properly. We were all so scared.”

However, the relief was evident as residents were allowed to return home. “We’re just glad it’s over,” said Joseph Camilleri, a 35-year-old software engineer. “It was a scary few hours, but we’re grateful for the quick response of the authorities.”

Lessons Learned: Communication and Preparation

While the false alarm caused temporary disruption, it also served as a reminder of the importance of emergency preparedness. “We need to improve our communication systems,” said CPD spokesperson, Joseph Muscat. “We’re looking into ways to quickly disseminate information to residents in such situations.”

Residents also expressed the need for better preparation. “We should have an emergency kit ready,” said Grech. “I didn’t even have a change of clothes with me during the evacuation.”

As Naxxar residents return to their daily lives, the echoes of last week’s false alarm serve as a stark reminder of the importance of preparedness and clear communication in emergency situations.