Saline County
Saline County residents have become accustomed to hearing the outdoor warning sirens being tested on the first Monday of each month at 4 p.m. Next week, however, you can hear them twice if you are standing outside.
Emergency Management plans to evaluate an additional siren activation method through the county's new radio system.
"The initial activation will begin at 4 p.m. and last for about three minutes instead of the usual one-minute test people are used to hearing," explained Michelle Barkley, emergency management director. "This time serves to ensure the process is working correctly and as a training opportunity for our staff. After this initial activation, we will commence the regular one-minute monthly test."
In an emergency situation where seconds matter, having multiple channels to activate warning sirens is imperative for public safety.
"We appreciate the public's patience and support in this process," said Barkley.
The outdoor warning sirens are a system intended to notify residents outside of their homes or places of business that severe weather is imminent. It is just one part of a multi-layered system to alert residents of potential life-threatening storms.