Today, a powerful tsunami warning was issued for the Pacific Coast, leaving many communities on high alert. In watching the news this morning, I was struck with how the people reporting on the ground about the tsunami warnings were flinching when the alarms on their phones or devices went off.

In designing acoustic warning systems it can be essential to consider the potential impact of sound trauma on mental health.  This is an area where the combined use of either light or scent might buffer the possibility of sound trauma.

What is sound trauma?

Tsunami warnings often feature distinctive sounds, such as:

• Sirens: loud, piercing sounds that can be heard for miles
• Alarms: repetitive, high-pitched beeps or tones that signal an emergency
• Alerts: urgent, automated messages on phones, radios, or televisions

These sounds can be traumatic for several reasons:

• Suddenness: Tsunami warnings often come with little to no warning, leaving individuals feeling startled and disoriented.
• Loudness: The sounds associated with warnings can be extremely loud, causing physical discomfort and emotional distress.
• Association with danger: The sounds of warnings are often linked to fear, anxiety, and danger, making them a source of trauma.

The Challenges of Sound in the Modern Era

One of the reasons I focus my work on scent is that many people are increasingly desensitized to sound. With the widespread use of smartphones and earbuds, people are often plugged into their devices, listening to music or podcasts that mask the sounds around them. This can make it difficult for people to notice and respond to important sounds, such as warnings or alarms.

Moreover, the constant exposure to sound through smartphones and other devices can lead to a phenomenon known as auditory habituation, where people become less responsive to sounds that are familiar or repetitive. This can make it more challenging for sound-based warnings or alerts to grab people’s attention, potentially leading to increased risk of sound trauma.

The Potential for Sound Trauma in Tsunami Warnings

The sounds associated with tsunami warnings can have a profound impact on mental health, particularly for those who have experienced trauma in the past and the effects of sound trauma include:

• Hypervigilance: an increased startle response, making it difficult to relax or feel safe
• Anxiety and fear: intense feelings of anxiety and fear, which can be overwhelming and debilitating

To mitigate the risks of sound trauma in tsunami warnings, it’s essential to:

Design with sound trauma in mind: emergency management officials and warning systems should consider the potential for sound trauma when creating warnings

• Provide clear and consistent information: warnings should be clear, concise, and consistent, reducing confusion and anxiety
• Offer support and resources: communities should have access to mental health resources and support services to help individuals cope with the emotional impact of sound trauma

The Importance of Multisensory Experiences in Emergency Response

In addition to sound, other senses, such as scent, can play a critical role in emergency response. Scent, in particular, has a unique ability to evoke emotions and memories, and can be used to enhance the impact of warnings and alerts.

By incorporating multiple senses, including scent, into emergency response systems, we can create more effective and engaging warnings that minimize sound trauma and maximize appropriate engagement to take actions to avoid risk.