Emergency-Siren Testing Is Under Way

If you hear an alarm sometime through the beginning of next week, chances are it's only a test.

A new Outdoor Emergency Notification System was recently installed near Big Corona Beach, along the Balboa Peninsula and in west Newport, according to Tara Finnigan, city spokeswoman.

The city began testing the new system this week to ensure it will function properly in case of an emergency. The tests will last about 10 seconds.

"While they would be used to convey a tsunami warning, they could also be used to alert residents and businesses of other emergencies, such as a gas line break," Finnigan said.

The three emergency warning sirens were placed at the end of Channel Road, near the entrance to West Jetty View Park and the Wedge; within Veterans Memorial Park, at 15th Street and  Bay Avenue; and by the handball courts in West Newport Park, near 60th Street and Seashore Drive.

The sirens are about four feet high and mounted on blue, 50-foot poles. The system is connected to a control panel at the Newport Beach Police Department.

Beginning Jan. 7 the emergency notification system will be tested regularly. The tests are scheduled for noon on the first Friday of each month and will be short and at a reduced sound level. In an emergency, the sirens will sound longer and louder, Finnigan said.

Residents and business owners should turn on their televisions or tune their radios to 107.9 FM—KWVE—for more information if they hear the sirens any time other than the scheduled testing periods, Finnigan said.

On Monday at noon, the city will host a siren test with the City Council at the base of the siren at 15th Street and Bay Avenue.