What to do when the siren sounds
When you hear the outdoor warning sirens, the first step to take is always to move indoors. The second step is to seek emergency instructions, which may be found in several places. Check local radio
What to do when the siren sounds
When you hear the outdoor warning sirens, the first step to take is always to move indoors. The second step is to seek emergency instructions, which may be found in several places. Check local radio and television stations. WMPX 1490 AM is the primary radio station for emergency information in the Midland area. Residents served by Charter Communications can look for information on Channel 188 (MGTV). Residents can also check Midland 911 Facebook page or sign up for Nixle alerts.
In the Midland area, you may also call 1-888-TELL-MORE (1-888-835-5667) for information and emergency instructions. It is extremely important that you DO NOT call 911 seeking information only. These lines must be kept open for people needing to report emergencies. Only call 911 if you have an emergency.
What is an outdoor warning siren?
An outdoor warning siren is a device similar to an automobile horn that is used to warn people of impending danger. Siren 'horns' are located high in the air on poles or buildings. When activated, each siren blasts out a steady, loud warning signal while the horn itself rotates around the pole so the signal is transmitted in all directions. The warning signal lasts for approximately 3 minutes.
The purpose of the siren is to alert people of present, or approaching danger. In the Midland area, the outdoor warning sirens are activated when a tornado warning has been issued by the National Weather Service; when a tornado has been sighted by trained spotters or public safety officials, or when a dangerous chemical release has occurred that could potentially cause immediate harm to the public.
Siren test schedule
The warning sirens throughout the City of Midland and the County of Midland are tested the first Saturday of each month at 12:45 p.m. A 'growl' test (not a full siren activation) is performed all other Saturdays of the month.
Dow Chemical and the Ipark have sirens that they test as well on Mondays. Sirens within the Ipark are tested every Monday and two of the outdoor warning sirens for the plant are tested at 10:55 a.m. on the first Monday of every month.