Outdoor warning siren testing canceled for Saturday due to cold forecast

Due to the expected low temperatures, the test of the Wood County outdoor warning sirens on Saturday (Feb. 7) is canceled.

Many of the sirens in Wood County use an electrical motor to power the sirens. Most manufacturers of these sirens do not recommend testing below 20F. Under extreme cold temperatures, moisture present in the siren would freeze, and could damage the motor when it is activated. 

Any damage sustained to the sirens could render them inoperable during potential severe weather this spring. Repairs could take an extended amount of time and costs would likely be in the thousands of dollars. 

This test occurrence will be canceled, not rescheduled. The Wood County Emergency Management Agency will plan to resume the normal testing schedule and frequency next month.