Outdoor Warning Systems Help Restore Order in Emergency Situations

Tornado season can be a time of heightened anxiety and concern for many citizens across the United States. Tornadoes are one of the most destructive natural disasters, causing significant property damage, injuries, and even fatalities and the 2023 tornado season has already set records with over 400 tornadoes touching ground in the U.S. in the first three months of the year. However, by taking proactive measures to prepare for tornado season, individuals and communities can minimize the risk of harm and damage.

One of the most important steps in preparing for tornado season is to familiarize yourself with your local emergency warning systems. These warning systems are designed to alert residents to the presence of severe weather and provide critical information on what actions to take to stay safe.

Outdoor warning sirens, like Whelen’s mass notification products, are used to alert residents of tornado warnings, flash floods, and other severe weather warnings. They’re also used to notify residents of man-made events like campus safety issues or chemical releases in their area. “The quickest and most effective way of warning the public of an emergency is to issue a tone and follow it with clear intelligible voice instructions,” said Chris Schaefer, Outdoor Warning and Mass Notification Sales Manager at Whelen. “Our mass notification products, like the WPS-2900 Series, provide clear, powerful, voice communication to residents during an emergency,” said Schaefer. “Whelen’s three-step approach—alert, inform, direct, or A.I.D.™— is a simple and effective way to eliminate confusion and restore order in an emergency,” added Schaefer. If you hear a siren, it’s important to immediately seek shelter in a sturdy building or a designated tornado shelter.

In addition to familiarizing yourself with your local warning systems, it’s also important to have a plan in place for responding to tornadoes. This plan should include identifying a safe place to take shelter, assembling an emergency kit with essential supplies, and practicing tornado drills with your family or household members.

Preparing for tornado season is a critical step in ensuring the safety and well-being of citizens across the U.S. By familiarizing yourself with your local emergency warning systems, you can stay informed and take appropriate action in the event of severe weather.