Local News
New run time for McKinney outdoor warning siren during test, activation on July 4
By City of McKinney
Jul 3, 2009

McKINNEY, Texas (June 18, 2009) – The McKinney Fire Department Office of Emergency Management has reprogrammed the run time for the outdoor warning system, with the test now running a minute and a half, and the emergency activation time lasting a full three minutes. On actual activations warning anyone within hearing distance to take cover, the voice message will be eliminated. All siren tests will be followed by a voice message in English and Spanish that lets anyone in hearing distance know it is just a test. 

The first live test using the new run time for the city's outdoor warning siren will be on Saturday, July 4 at noon. Fire officials warn citizens that the siren sounding at that time does not indicate an emergency situation.  

“July Fourth is projected to be a clear day with no threat of severe weather, and we want residents in the area who will be able to hear the sirens to know that it is only a test,” said McKinney Emergency Management Coordinator Karen Adkins. “The first Saturday of the month is our regular day to test, and we are remaining consistent with this plan. Residents and visitors attending the city’s Red, White and BOOM! Activities on July 4 will hear the test if they are outside and should be aware that it is just a test.”  

The sirens were reprogrammed for a longer run time for both the test and severe weather activation to give all residents a greater opportunity to hear them. McKinney’s outdoor warning system includes 21 sirens. The sirens are just one of the many ways McKinney residents can be warned of potentially dangerous weather or other emergency situations. 

“The Outdoor Warning System is only one way McKinney residents can receive critical information during severe weather. Citizens should access other sources, such as local news broadcasts, radio, internet weather sources or a personal alerting device known as a NOAA Weather Radio to ensure that they are receiving optimal information during Severe Weather or emergencies,” said Adkins.