Outdoor Warning Siren Test Canceled In Lakewood

LAKEWOOD, CO — The City of Lakewood has canceled the test of its outdoor siren system this week. The test was originally scheduled for Wednesday, Lakewood police said.

Though the audible siren test has been canceled, silent functionality tests of all early warning sirens in the city will continue as scheduled to ensure proper function of the system in case an actual emergency occurs, according to the Lakewood Police Department.

The City of Lakewood has a siren warning system that includes 25 siren sites. The sirens are electronically tested monthly and the entire system is audibly tested annually in May. The system is designed to warn the public of natural or man-made danger.

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When you hear the sirens you should seek shelter immediately. The city has released the following guidelines:

If you are in a structure (residence, school, business, medical facility, etc.):

Go to a pre-designated shelter area such as a safe room, basement, storm cellar, or the lowest building level. If there is no basement, go to the center of an interior room on the lowest level (closet, interior hallway) away from corners, windows, doors, and outside walls. Put as many walls as possible between you and the outside. Get under a sturdy table and use your arms to protect your head and neck. Do not open windows.

If you are in a vehicle, trailer, or mobile home:

Get out immediately and go to the lowest floor of a sturdy, nearby building or a storm shelter. Mobile homes, even if tied down, offer little protection from tornadoes.

If you are outside with no shelter:

• Lie flat in a nearby ditch or depression and cover your head with your hands. Be aware of the potential for flooding
• Do not get under an overpass or bridge. You are safer in a low, flat location.
• Never try to outrun a tornado in urban or congested areas in a car or truck. Instead, leave the vehicle immediately for safe shelter.
• Watch out for flying debris. Flying debris from tornadoes causes most fatalities and injuries.

Once you have reached shelter, you should tune into local news media for additional information. Lakewood’s sirens do not sound an “All Clear” tone, so consult the news media to learn when the danger has lifted.

>> Lakewood Emergency Sirens Video