Outdoor Warning Siren Test Scheduled for April 9, 2025

Categories: CommunityEvents/What's HappeningNews

Testing of outdoor warning sirens in York and Huntersville

News Summary

Residents of York and Huntersville are reminded that outdoor warning sirens will be tested on April 9, 2025, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. This routine check aims to ensure the functionality of safety systems around the Catawba and McGuire nuclear stations. With a total of 156 sirens in the vicinity, the drill is crucial for community safety. Residents should stay calm if they hear the sirens, which will be operational for five to thirty seconds. This test, in collaboration with local emergency agencies, is part of ongoing preparedness efforts.

Attention Residents of York and Huntersville!

Mark your calendars, everyone! On April 9, 2025, outdoor warning sirens will be put to the test around the Catawba and McGuire nuclear stations. This important drill will take place between 11 a.m. and 1 p.m.. So if you hear a siren during that time, there’s no need to panic; it’s just a routine check!

What’s Happening?

Duke Energy will perform these tests to ensure safety systems are functioning efficiently. In total, there are 89 sirens within a 10-mile radius of the Catawba Nuclear Station, located right here in York, S.C.. Meanwhile, 67 sirens are set up around the McGuire Nuclear Station in Huntersville, N.C.. Be prepared to hear those sirens blaring for anywhere from five to thirty seconds during this vital testing phase.

Why Is This Important?

Safety is a top priority, and this siren testing is a key part of ensuring that emergency systems are in tip-top shape. Some sirens may even be tested more than once to confirm everything is working as it should be. If there’s any maintenance after the main testing period, you might hear some follow-up tests after 1 p.m.. But remember, it’s all part of keeping our communities safe!

Who’s Involved?

This testing is a collaborative effort between Duke Energy and emergency management officials, who work closely with counties such as Catawba, Gaston, Iredell, Lincoln, and Mecklenburg in North Carolina and York County in South Carolina. They are dedicated to making sure that everything runs smoothly during emergencies.

What Should You Do?

As residents, it’s crucial to remain calm and not be alarmed if you hear the sirens. They are merely a test, and you should go about your day as usual. Local radio and television stations will not interrupt their regular programming to broadcast Emergency Alert System (EAS) messages during this test, which means you won’t receive any alerts that might confuse you.

Stay Informed!

If you want to learn more about these warning sirens and their importance, you can visit the Duke Energy website. Specifically, check out duke-energy.com/NuclearEP. It’s a great resource to find out everything you need to know about outdoor warning sirens and nuclear emergency preparedness.

Did You Know?

Duke Energy Carolinas, a branch of Duke Energy, is a heavyweight in the energy game. They own 20,700 megawatts of energy capacity, serving 2.9 million customers! Duke Energy is a Fortune 150 company based in Charlotte, N.C., and is responsible for lighting up the lives of 8.4 million customers across multiple states. The company is also working hard to transition to cleaner generation sources, focusing on upgrades to the grid and incorporating more renewable energy, natural gas, and nuclear power.

In Summary

So there you have it! On April 9, 2025, when you hear those sirens, just remember it’s a friendly test meant to keep our communities safe. Safety measures like this ensure we’re ready for any situation that may arise, and together with Duke Energy and emergency officials, we can all help foster a secure environment. Stay safe, stay calm, and don’t forget to pass the word along to family and friends!