With less than stellar results from its first emergency warning siren test in August, Big Bear Fire Department will be conducting its next monthly test on Thursday, September 26, 2019 at 11:00 a.m. These sirens are one way to notify the public of emergency situations requiring action.
The testing is important to build awareness as well as to ensure the system is effective and is in proper working order. The Department was able to identify areas of need during the first test including the areas where the sirens did not reach, as well as a siren that did not work properly at the Moonridge location.
Four additional sirens
Currently, the Department owns four sirens purchased through grant money for Valley-wide emergency notifications.
The Department is currently in the process of applying for new grants to fill in some of the gaps
Prior to the August test, these sirens had been out of commission for many years due to multiple radio frequency changes. The current siren locations and expected range are shown on Image No. 1. The Department is currently in the process of applying for new grants to fill in some of the gaps. Image No. 2 shows where the Department would like to place four additional sirens if grant money becomes available.
Emergency warning siren
The 15-second test blasts will continue every month on the fourth Thursday at 11:00 a.m. During a true emergency, the full siren cycle will be run for three minutes.
When the public hears the full siren cycle, they should tune in to local media or look to Big Bear Fire’s website for details regarding the emergency incident. The public should not call 9-1-1, the Sheriff’s Office or fire stations.