Attention Hawai'i residents: mark your calendars and set your watches. The Hawai'i Emergency Management Agency (HIEMA) has announced that the monthly test of the Statewide Outdoor Warning Siren System will take place on Tuesday at 11:45 a.m. This routine check is set to ensure that, in case of an actual emergency, everyone is adequately warned. During this test, the sirens will emit a one-minute Attention Alert Signal, which is a steady tone meant to grab your attention, not to panic.
It's not just the sirens; the test also includes the Live Audio Broadcast segment of the Emergency Alert System, which collaborates with Hawai'i's broadcast industry. Remember, these are just tests; there will be no accompanying exercise or drill. If you find yourself hearing these signals outside of the scheduled tests, it's not a drill, and you should seek information and follow instructions provided by official government channels, be that through a local radio or television broadcast or a cellular Wireless Emergency Alert.
For those who like to stay ahead of the curve on emergency management, you can find disaster preparedness information in the "Get Ready" section at ready.hawaii.gov, released by the HIEMA's official publication. This site also allows you to sign up for county alerts, ensuring you’re looped into any urgent notifications specific to your area. And in the event you fancy a bit more old-school methods, the front section of most telephone directories in Hawaii's counties still offers up essential information.
To stay informed on all things emergency preparedness or to view the full news release, visit HIEMA's official publication.
