Storm Sirens

Sirens during a storm are typically activated to warn people of severe weather, such as tornadoes or high winds, and to signal the need to take shelter indoors. The specific criteria for activating sirens vary by location, but they generally indicate a life-threatening situation, according to the National Weather Service. Sirens are designed to be heard outdoors, alerting those who may not be aware of an approaching storm.

When are Storm Sirens Tested?

Sirens are tested according to local community or state policies. Check with your local officials to get the specific day for your community.

Who Activates Storm Sirens?

Sirens are typically activated by city or county officials, usually a police or fire department or emergency management personnel. Check with your city or county officials to learn more.

What do you do when you Hear Storm Sirens?

• Go Indoors First & Foremost!

• Stay Informed & Gather Information - Turn on a radio or television to a local station, or check your mobile device for alerts from the National Weather Service or local authorities.
  • Don't Rely Solely on One Source - Have multiple ways to receive warnings, such as local TV, NOAA Weather Radio, internet, and phone apps.

If storm sirens continue to sound and local stations are advising residents to take shelter due to the climb in severe and dangerous weather conditions, follow these steps immediately:

• Find Sturdy Shelter- Head to an interior room on the lowest level of your home or a nearby building. Avoid windows, doors, and exterior walls--flying debris can be extremely dangerous.
  • The best options for shelter would be underground (basements, storm cellars, or safe rooms) or the lowest level interior room available. If you do not have a basement, go to a small interior room that has no windows, like a closet or bathroom.
  • If you can't get underground or to the lowest level bathroom or closet, get under something sturdy like heavy furniture. Gather blankets or get a mattress to cover yourself, and get a helmet if you have one.
  • Protect your Head & Neck - Crouch down and cover your head and neck with your arms or a blanket, mattress, or helmet.
  • Mobile Homes - Do not stay in a mobile home during a tornado warning or watch. Get out and go to the closest sturdy building or designated storm shelter. If no shelter is available, lie flat in a ditch or low-lying area away from the mobile home, covering your head with your arms.
  • Vehicles - Being in a vehicle during a tornado is not safe. Drive to the closest sturdy shelter if possible. If that's not possible, either get down in your vehicle and cover your head, or abandon the vehicle and seek shelter in a low-lying area such as a ditch or ravine. Do not take shelter under highway overpasses.
  • Outdoors - If you're caught outside and can't reach a sturdy building, seek shelter in a ditch, culvert, or low-lying area. Lie flat and protect your head with your arms or an object. Avoid areas with many trees or vehicles.

What do you do Post-Storm?

• Continue to stay informed, monitor weather reports, and follow instructions from authorities.
• Stay away from any hazards like downed power lines and broken utility lines.
• Assess the damage around you, your home, or the building you sought shelter in.
• Check on others and assist anyone who may be injured and call for help if needed.

Remember: The sirens are for those outdoors, but everyone should take immediate action when a severe weather warning or watch is issued or sirens sound. Don't wait to see the tornado; act quickly to protect yourself and your family.