The City of Pleasant Hill has nine outdoor sirens placed strategically throughout the community as an early warning devise to alert citizens of potential dangers.
The system - managed by the Pleasant Hill Police Department - is not designed to warn people indoors. A NOAA All-Hazards Weather Radiois the fastest and most reliable way to receive severe weather, watches, warnings and advisories and information about other community hazards.
This outdoor warning system is tested on the first Wednesday of the month at 11 a.m. year round except during extreme cold, heavy icing or if the potential for severe weather exists. If the monthly test is cancelled, it will typically be postponed one week to the second Wednesday of the month at 11 a.m. The test date for March is sometimes altered to coincide with the statewide tornado drill during Severe Weather Awareness Week. On test day, police officers report to each siren location across Pleasant Hill and monitor the system by listening and reporting their findings to the communications center.
Residents may occasionally hear a siren or group of sirens being tested outside of the normal testing dates and times. This is usually preventative maintenance that needs to be completed to ensure the siren equipment is operational.
During a tornado warning, remember:
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Stay calm, take cover in your pre-determined safety spot.
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Don't tie up phone lines by calling the National Weather Service, local emergency services, public officials or the news media.
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There is no "all-clear" signal on the outdoor warning system.
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If possible, turn to local media for updates or instructions from public officials.