September is National Preparedness Month and Lloyd Colston, Director of Emergency Management for the City of Altus, is making sure that the citizens of Altus are notified in the case of an emergency through outdoor warning devices like the new siren shown here, affordable weather radios and a new simultaneous phone call system.
Altus Times photo by Michael Bush
The new system will not be used to replace the current weather sirens, but to enhance the storm warning system. As a matter of fact, a new siren has recently been installed. Seen in the photo above, it is located in the south part of Altus just off South Navajoe.
“This siren covers a much larger area than the old one that was damaged in the big June 5, 2008 storm,” Colston said. “My plan is to at some point add five new and better sirens like this one that will replace the older sirens currently being used.”
Colston said that sirens are an important part of the severe weather warning system, but would like people to take advantage of a grant approved this week by the County Commissioners that will cover 75% of the cost of a weather radio, up to $50 each. (see story below for more details).
Colston also suggested people remember the “4-Ps”: Plan, Prepare, Practice and Promote.
“There are many ways to get a warning, but if you are not prepared for an emergency, it could very bad.”
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