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1. What does it mean when I hear the Outdoor Warning Sirens?

In short, it means that something life-threatening is happening and you should go indoors and get more information. 

2. What should I do when I hear the outdoor warning sirens?

When the sirens are heard, seek shelter and tune in to local media/NOAA Weather Radio to get more information.

3. Why can’t I hear the outdoor warning sirens in my house?

Sirens are an outdoor warning system designed only to alert those who are outside that something dangerous is approaching. 

4. How can I get alerts when I’m at work or in my house?

Sign up for Albany Countywide Alerts. In addition, every home and business should have a NOAA Weather Radio All-Hazards. NOAA Weather Radios are like a smoke detector for severe weather and can wake you up when a warning is issued for your area so you can take appropriate action. 

5. When are outdoor warning sirens tested?

Sirens are tested on the first Friday of each month at 10 am. These tests may be postponed if severe weather is in the area to avoid confusion if an actual event occurs. 

6. Why don’t the outdoor warning sirens sound an all-clear signal?

People should be indoors and monitoring local media for updates on the storm.

7. Will the outdoor warning sirens warn me of every dangerous storm?

The safest approach is to be proactive and use all of the information available to protect yourself and your family from threatening weather. Nothing can replace common sense. If a storm is approaching, the lightning alone is a threat. Sirens are only one part of a warning system that includes preparation, Albany Countywide Alerts, NOAA Weather Radios, and local media.

8. Who activates the outdoor warning sirens?

In Albany County, the Outdoor Warning Sirens are activated by Laramie/Albany County Records and Communications (LARC/Dispatch).