First Sign of Spring: Severe Weather Warning Siren Test

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Sheriff Press Release

 

First Sign of Spring:
Severe Weather Warning Siren Test

March 31, 2018

Media Contact: Captain Bob Tease, 616-738-4050

 

The first of several monthly severe weather warning siren tests for 2018 in Ottawa County will happen on Friday, April 6 at noon. The sirens will sound for approximately 1 to 3 minutes during the test. 

The communities in Ottawa County with sirens are:

  • Allendale Charter Township
  • Blendon Township
  • Chester Township
  • Coopersville City
  • Crockery Township
  • Ferrysburg City
  • Georgetown Charter Township
  • Grand Haven City
  • Grand Haven Charter Township
  • Grand Valley State University
  • Holland City
  • Hudsonville City
  • Robinson Township
  • Spring Lake Village
  • Spring Lake Township
  • Zeeland City

Sirens are designed to alert those who are outdoors of an imminent hazard, most often severe weather, prompting them to find shelter and seek further information. Sirens can typically be heard (outdoors) about a mile from their sounding location. More at details are available at https://www.miottawa.org/Sheriff/sirens.htm. Sirens will continue to be tested on the first Friday of each month through November. 

The tests are good reminders for residents to prepare for severe weather by having emergency supplies in their homes, such as water, flashlights, non-perishable foods and other items. Learn more about building a kit at www.ready.gov/build-a-kit.

Outdoor warning sirens represent only one part of a broader public emergency notification system. Other components include National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration All-Hazards Weather Radio, law enforcement, emergency management, text notification networks, private sector meteorologists and the media. Smartphone apps can also provide notification of weather watches and warnings.