WHAT DOES THAT NOISE/SIREN MEAN?

The City of Berkeley Lake is proud to have a severe weather warning siren system strategically placed within the City. While our siren system may be activated locally, it is generally managed by the Communications Division of the Duluth Police Department. Following is the information regarding siren use in the City of Berkeley Lake. The siren may be heard beyond the City limit boundaries. If you have additional questions please call the Duluth Police Department at 770 476 5191.

WHEN ARE THE SIRENS SOUNDED

• Tornado Warning in accordance with the National Weather Service definition of reported tornado activity
• Tornado actually spotted in the area
• Tornado watch defined by the National Weather Service as conditions favorable for a tornado
• DO NOT CALL 911 to ask why sirens are sounding.

HOW LONG ARE SIRENS SOUNDED?

• Sirens sounded continuously for 3 to 5 minutes in the event of a real emergency.
  Sirens are sounded for 20 to 30 seconds during testing.

WHAT SHOULD I DO WHEN I HEAR THE SIRENS?

• If high winds, severe thunder and lightning are present immediately go to your basement or safe area in your home. Be sure to have a flashlight and battery operated radio (with fresh batteries) so you will know when the storm has passed and when it is clear to leave your safe area.
• If you are outside and away from buildings or shelters get away from trees and lie flat on the ground until the storm passes.
• If you are in a vehicle get out immediately and get to a more substantial structure.
• If weather does appear severe in your area tune in to a local Atlanta TV or radio station for weather updates. Be prepared to go quickly to your safe area if weather conditions worsen.

IS "ALL CLEAR" ISSUED WHEN CONDITIONS ARE SAFE?

• We DO NOT ISSUE AN ALL CLEAR. Tornadoes are very unpredictable and for this reason, we do not sound an 'all clear' signal. You should monitor radio and TV channels from your safe area to determine when severe conditions have passed the area.

WHY DO I HEAR SIRENS WHEN THE WEATHER IS CLEAR?

• Sirens are tested at 12:00 noon on the FIRST WEDNESDAY of each month for 20 to 30 seconds corresponding with the National Weather Service s testing of their emergency systems. If questionable weather conditions exist on FIRST Wednesday, the test will be conducted on Thursday. If the weather is questionable on Thursday, the test will be canceled for the month.
• When repairs are made on the sirens, repair personnel will test the siren to ensure it is in working order.