You have probably heard them before, maybe on a Wednesday afternoon. Rossville’s outdoor warning sirens are an important part of how the Rossville Fire Department helps keep our community safe. Knowing how they work can help you and your family respond quickly and safely. Here is a quick guide to what they do, when they sound, and what you should do when you hear them.
What Are the Sirens For?
Outdoor warning sirens are designed to alert people who are outside to tornadoes and other dangerous weather. If you are working in the yard, walking the dog, or at a ballgame, the sirens are meant to get your attention fast.
When Do the Sirens Sound?
The sirens may sound:
- During a National Weather Service tornado warning
- When an immediate weather threat is identified
Weekly Testing: Every Wednesday at 3:30 p.m.
To make sure the system is working properly, the sirens are tested every Wednesday at 3:30 p.m. If you hear the sirens at that time on a Wednesday, it is most likely just the weekly test.
One important exception: audible tests are canceled when severe or inclement weather is present or possible. This helps avoid confusion between a test and a real warning.
What Should I Do If I Hear the Sirens?
If you hear the sirens outside of a scheduled test, take it seriously and act right away:
- Seek sturdy shelter immediately.
- Go to an interior room on the lowest level of the building.
- Stay away from windows and exterior walls.
- Monitor official weather updates for the latest information.
Sirens Are for Outdoors
Keep in mind that the sirens are meant to warn people who are outdoors. They may not be heard inside homes or businesses, especially during a storm. That is why you should never rely on the sirens as your only warning.
Have at Least Two More Ways to Get Alerts
Make sure you have at least two additional ways to receive weather alerts, such as:
- A NOAA Weather Radio
- Smartphone alerts
- Local TV or radio
It is also a good idea to follow official weather sources on social media so you can stay informed when severe weather is on the way.
Be Prepared, Rossville
A little preparation goes a long way. Know what the sirens mean, remember the Wednesday 3:30 p.m. test, and have more than one way to get weather alerts. Together, we can help keep everyone in Rossville safe.
