Outdoor Warning Siren System

About the Sirens

  • New technology has enabled Ottawa County Dispatch to activate the sirens for a county wide warning.
  • Local communities still control their own sirens which gives them the ability to sound them for local emergencies.

When They Will Sound

  • Monthly testing happens every first Friday of the month beginning in April and concluding in October.
  • The purpose of the sirens is to notify residents of any emergency situation.
  • The sirens will sound for the following conditions:
    • Sustained Winds of 70 Miles Per Hour or More
    • Tornado Warning
  • They may also be activated to notify an area that a hazardous material incident has occurred.

Emergency Planning

Before the Emergency

  • Have an emergency plan in place.
  • Designate a location for family members to meet.
  • Have a flashlight, battery operated radio and fresh batteries on hand.

When the Siren Sounds

  • Take cover.
  • Tune in to local media or NOAA weather radio at frequency 162.425 for further information.
  • Do not call 911 unless you have an emergency situation requiring immediate attention.