Fayette County Outdoor Warning Siren Testing Today at 10:00 a.m.

The city of Lexington, in collaboration with the Lexington Emergency Management, announced that the outdoor warning sirens in Fayette County will undergo a scheduled testing today, Wednesday, May 1, 2024, at 10:00 a.m. Citizens residing near parks or golf courses are expected to hear a series of chimes followed by a voice announcement stating, “This is a test.” It’s critical to emphasize that there is no cause for concern; this is a routine test and not indicative of any emergency situation.

Rules of Engagement

Please do not call 9-1-1 concerning the siren test. The sirens are designed to notify those who are outdoors, not individuals inside homes, apartments, or office buildings. Further details about the Lexington Warning Siren System can be found at the provided website link: http://bereadylexington.com/siren-faq

Being Prepared for Emergencies

It’s essential to stay prepared for any potential emergencies, including earthquakes, extreme cold and heat, household fire dangers, flooding, hazardous spills, high winds, ice storms, lightning storms, power outages, and severe storms and thunderstorms. For each unique threat, there are planned response procedures to ensure the safety and wellbeing of every citizen.

Community Involvement Is Important

The state programs Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) and Chemical Stockpile Emergency Preparedness Program (CSEPP) offer excellent opportunities for residents to get involved in preserving the safety and security of their community. The history and current status of CSEPP in Kentucky and specifically in Fayette County provide valuable insights about the county’s preparedness level in handling hazardous chemical spills and related disasters. In addition, the Blue Grass Army Depot is actively involved in chemical agent disposal, further enhancing the safety of the county.

Stay Informed Through the BeReady Phone App

For convenient access to information about hazards and preparedness, the BeReady Phone App is available for download. The app provides real-time updates and notifications about emergency situations, hazardous weather conditions, and outdoor warning siren tests. You can also tune into NOAA Weather Radio for all-weather related updates.

Comprehensive Preparedness Plans

The city has formulated detailed preparedness plans for different groups and scenarios including those for people with disability, equine, farm, pets, senior citizens, specified events, and travel. They also include a section for utility shutoff plans. Building an emergency kit for overall, financial, vehicle, home and pet emergencies offers another layer of preparation. A systematic plan addressing shelter in place scenarios is also in place.

In Conclusion

The scheduled testing of the outdoor warning sirens in Fayette County is a routine exercise and is part of the broader emergency preparedness strategy adopted by the region. Lexington Emergency Management, the Blue Grass Army Depot, CERT, and CSEPP strive to ensure the safety and wellbeing of all Fayette County residents. The BeReady Phone App and the NOAA Weather Radio are essential tools in staying informed and prepared, cementing the message of the test – BE AWARE and BE READY.