The Outdoor Warning System for the City of Irving is comprised of 23 sirens located throughout the city. The sirens are activated from the alarm office of the Irving Fire Department and are sounded to warn of severe weather. 

Severe weather warnings will be issued to notify residents about approaching storms including tornadoes, hail that is half inch or larger in size and straight-line winds in excess of 50 miles per hour. Once activated, the sirens sound a steady tone and will rotate 360 degrees for three minutes.  Depending upon the weather conditions the System may be continually activated until the danger has passed.  An all-clear message is NOT sounded. 

If you are indoors, proceed to an interior room or hallway on the lowest floor of the building.  Put as many walls as possible between you and the outside.  Stay away from windows and doors.  Get under something sturdy such as a table and if possible, cover yourself with a blanket or sleeping bag.  It is strongly recommended that residents designate a shelter area for their home in advance and practice going to that area as a family.

If you are in an office building during a severe storm, seek shelter on the lowest level of the building.  You can also use the fire escapes or restrooms as shelter areas.  Remember to designate your shelter area in advance; there will be less confusion during severe weather if the location is pre-determined.  Offices should hold tornado drills.

The Outdoor Warning System is tested on the first Wednesday of every month at 1 p.m., weather permitting. When sounded in an emergency situation, this indicates that a tornado, large hail, high winds or other emergency are imminent for the City of Irving.

For more information on the Outdoor Warning Siren System, call the Irving Emergency Management Office at 972.721.6559, Monday through Friday between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m.