by Kevin Lilly
This morning and later today, people across Indiana will hear emergency sirens blaring, but they should not panic, say state and local officials.
“It’s just the annual testing we do every year,” said Alvin Beckman, Cass County Emergency Management Agency director.
As part of Severe Weather Awareness Week, the National Weather Service, in conjunction with the Indiana State Police, Integrated Public Safety Commission, Indiana Department of Homeland Security, state school systems, broadcast media and amateur radio operators, will conduct two statewide tests of emergency communication systems between 10:15 a.m. and 10:30 a.m. and 7:30 p.m. and 7:45 p.m.
For the first time in years, the NWS will activate the Emergency Alert System using actual event codes that indicate a tornado warning.
Beckman wants area residents to know that today’s sirens going off is only a drill, especially since the forecast calls for sunny weather.
“This year, they’re actually going to come out and broadcast, ‘This is a tornado warning,’” Beckman said. “I’m concerned that some people may hear just the tornado warning and not hear the part about this is a test.”
If severe weather occurs, the testing will commence during the same time frames on Thursday.
Beckman said because warmer temperatures increase the threat of severe weather, schools, businesses and families should use today to review safety plans and conduct drills.
Emergency personnel will record the time they receive the warnings. Beckman said he will submit those to the weather service and Homeland Security.
Beckman pointed out that severe weather entails more than tornadoes.
“With severe weather, it is not just the tornadoes. Severe thunderstorms, flash flooding and flooding conditions are also things they want people to be aware of,” he said.
• Kevin Lilly is news editor of the Pharos-Tribune. He can be reached at 574-732-5117 or kevin.lilly@pharostribune.com.
Severe weather safety tips
The Indiana State Police is offering tips in case severe weather threatens.
• Purchase an all-hazards weather radio — Monitor the radio and be prepared to act on all warnings and watches issued by the National Weather Service.
• Homes or small buildings — Go to the basement or an interior room on the lowest floor, such as a closet or bathroom. Wrap yourself in overcoats or blankets for protection from flying debris. Rooms under stairwells also offer protection from dangerous weather.
• Schools and shopping centers — Go to interior rooms and halls on the lowest floor. Stay away from glass enclosed areas or areas with wide-span roofs. Crouch down and cover your head. Follow all instructions from staff members.
• In your car or mobile home — Leave immediately. Numerous unnecessary deaths occur in cars and mobile homes. If you are in either of those locations, leave them and go to a substantial structure or shelter. If no structure is nearby, lie flat in the nearest ditch and use your hands to cover your head.
