OTTAWA COUNTY, Mich. — Ottawa County will hold its monthly outdoor warning siren test this Friday.
These tests occur on the first Friday of every month, April through October, according to a news release Monday.
Outdoor warning sirens are used to alert residents of an “imminent hazard” and prompt them to find shelter and seek further information.
Severe weather “watch” means there’s a potential for storms and/or tornadoes to develop, so residents should be mindful of changing weather conditions.
A severe weather “warning” means storms are either imminent or actively happening.
If a tornado warning is issued, officials say residents should take shelter in a location on the lowest level of a building
Ottawa County Emergency Management offered the following tips for preparing for severe weather:
- Identify safe rooms that may serve as a protective location during a storm event.
- Build an emergency kit, as well as a communication plan for your family.
- Be alert and remain situationally aware to changing weather conditions.
- Subscribe to Ottawa County Emergency Alerts through a Smart911 profile.
After a storm, officials recommend residents:
- Listen to local officials for updates and instructions.
- Check in with family and friends using text or social media outlets.
- Watch for debris or downed power lines.
- Photograph the damage to your property for damage assessment.
- Check and restock emergency supply kits.
