Buffalo Grove, ILBuffalo Grove

While there is the potential for severe storms this evening, today, April 4, is also the day for our routine Outdoor Warning System (OWS) siren test, which occurs at 10:00 a.m. This routine test occurs the first Tuesday of every month, so we can ensure our OWS is sounding properly. 

A common misconception is that these sirens are meant to be heard inside a home or building. They are not. The sirens are intended for motorists and those outdoors as a warning to seek shelter.  

Make sure you to have multiple ways to receive weather updates, such as a weather app on your cell phone, and be alert for rapidly changing conditions later today.

Important information to know about sirens: 

How often are sirens tested? 

Sirens are tested the first Tuesday of every month at 10 a.m. to ensure they are functioning properly. 

What do the sirens mean?

Sirens are intended to alert those outdoors of an immediate danger, such as a tornado warning, high winds, or homeland security threat. 

What should I do if I hear sirens?

If it is not a routine test, immediately seek shelter, and tune to local media for information on the type of emergency and safety instructions.