Due to the expected low temperatures over the next 24-36 hours and low wind chill, Saturday’s test of the outdoor warning sirens is canceled.
Many of the sirens in Wood County use an electrical motor to power the sirens, according to a press release from the Wood County Emergency Management Agency. Most manufacturers of these sirens do not recommend testing below 20 degrees. Under extreme cold temperatures, moisture present in the siren would freeze, and could damage the motor when it is activated. Any damage sustained to the sirens could render them inoperable as we move towards severe weather this spring. Repairs could take an extended amount of time and costs would likely be in the thousands of dollars.
This test occurrence will be canceled, not rescheduled. The normal testing schedule and frequency will resume in March.
