Outdoor Warning Siren Use Limited during Tornado Drill
Weather Radios, Partnering TV and Radio Stations Broadcasting Alerts
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: April 12, 2016
LANSING. The Michigan State Police, Emergency Management and Homeland Security Division (MSP/EMHSD) reminds Michiganders that outdoor warning siren use will be limited during the 2016 Statewide Tornado Drill at 1:30 p.m. EDT on Wednesday, April 13.
In Michigan, outdoor warning sirens are independently controlled by local officials in townships, villages, cities and counties, varying community by community to meet local needs. Many communities have different plans, procedures and requirements for sounding sirens that are established years in advance. This may prevent some communities from activating their sirens during the tornado drill.
“Outdoor warning sirens are designed to alert residents about danger when outside,” said Capt. Chris A. Kelenske, Deputy State Director of Emergency Management and Homeland Security and commander of the MSP/EMHSD. “To be better prepared for all emergencies and disasters, look to your NOAA Weather Radio and local alerts to stay informed. Sirens should only be one piece of your emergency plan.”
Michigan residents participating in the statewide tornado drill will observe or hear alerts on NOAA Weather Radios and participating TV and radio stations. To learn how local alerts are administrated in your community and if your community is participating, contact your local emergency management agency.
Gov. Rick Snyder has proclaimed Michigan’s Severe Weather Awareness Week from April 10-16. The statewide tornado drill is a part of a seasonal effort to encourage Michigan residents to take action to prepare and practice emergency plans.
In the event of actual severe weather on April 13, the 2016 Statewide Tornado Drill will occur at 1:30 p.m. EDT onThursday, April 14.
For more information about tornadoes and other severe weather, go to www.michigan.gov/miready and the MSP/EMHSD on Twitter at @MichEMHS.
