Siren FAQ

IF THE SIRENS ARE ACTIVATED, IS THERE DEFINITELY A TORNADO?

No. The sirens are Early Warning Sirens. Their purpose is to inform the public as early as possible about potentially dangerous weather conditions in our area.

WHEN ARE THE EARLY WARNING SIRENS ACTIVATED?

The Early Warning Sirens will be activated when the National Weather Service (NWS) issues a warning for an area that includes any part of the city limits of Marshall. Sirens are usually only activated for tornado warnings. Sirens are usually only activated for Tornado Warnings.

WHAT SHOULD YOU DO WHEN THE EARLY WARNING SIRENS ARE ACTIVATED?

You should monitor local TV, Radio, Weather Radio, or the Internet in order to obtain accurate weather information so you will be able to make an informed safety decision.

WHO ACTIVATES THE SIRENS?

The Early Warning Sirens are activated from the Police/Fire/911 Dispatch Center. The dispatchers are instructed when to activate the sirens by the Emergency Management Coordinator for the City of Marshall. The Emergency Management Coordinator also has the ability to activate the sirens remotely.

HOW MANY EARLY WARNING SIRENS ARE THERE IN THE CITY OF MARSHALL?

There are a total of seven (7) including: Washington Early Childhood on Evans Street; William B. Travis Elementary School on Carolanne Street; Oak Lawn Golf Course on Victory Drive; Key Street at Martin Street; I-20 behind I-HOP; at the end of Carters Ferry Road; and East End Blvd N at the Marshall Police Department.

IS THERE AN “ALL-CLEAR” TONE OR SOUND?

No. Because our sirens make only one sound, you will not hear an all-clear tone or sound. It is strongly recommended that you continue to monitor local radio and/or television weather reports.