Emergency Warning & Notification Systems

The Outdoor Warning Sirens will be audibly tested on the first Wednesday of each month at 12:00 PM, if weather conditions are favorable.

These sirens are designed to alert citizens, who are outdoors, to an imminent threat in the community. When sounded, citizens should seek shelter immediately in a stable structure. Once secure, citizens should listen to a radio and/or television for emergency warning details and further instructions. While tornado warnings are the most common cause for siren activation, the sirens should not be considered a "tornado siren." They are intended as an "all-hazards" alerting system and may be activated for any type of emergency situation. 

the outdoor warning sirens can be activated when:

  • The National Weather Service issues a Garland area Tornado Warning or Severe Thunderstorm Warning with destructive winds at or above 70 mph
  • Trained storm spotters have reported a tornado with the potential to affect the City of Garland
  • Hail of 1.75 inches (golf ball size) in diameter is imminent
  • Deemed necessary by City of Garland officials (i.e. in the event of any emergency when officials need to get citizens to move indoors for their safety such as a chemical spill)

Ways to Stay Informed

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We strongly recommend that you consider the following: 

  • Purchase a NOAA All-Hazards Weather Radio
  • Subscribe to a wireless alerting system to receive alerts on your phone
  • Rely on the Outdoor Warning Sirens ONLY for an out door warning
  • Turn to broadcast radio or television for details and follow-up information