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NR 14-03 Siren Test Scheduled for Wednesday

 
 

Angela Walz, Public Affairs, 509-377-4010

Mike Paoli, Public Affairs, 509-377-4164

RICHLAND, Wash. – Energy Northwest, emergency response officials from Benton and Franklin Counties, and the Department of Energy will conduct bi-annual siren tests Wednesday between 10 a.m. and noon.

 Testing will include sirens along the Columbia and Yakima rivers and will be heard between the Vernita Bridge and Leslie Groves Park in north Richland, and at the Horn Rapids
Off-Road Vehicle Park, the firing range on Horn Road, Columbia Generating Station and adjoining areas.

Officials will test the siren system multiple times, and each test will be preceded and followed by voice announcements confirming that the siren activation is part of a test. Energy Northwest representatives will be located near each siren to confirm proper operation. Periodic siren tests are conducted to test emergency equipment and train workers on emergency response procedures.

No public response is required during these tests.

In an emergency, county officials would activate the Emergency Alert System and broadcast information to the public over local radio and television stations. Sirens located along the Columbia River would also be activated if it were necessary to alert people on the river.

Additionally, there will be a test of tone alert radios scheduled for Wednesday afternoon. If the tone alert radio doesn't automatically activate, residents should contact their respective county emergency management office. In Benton County, call (509) 628-2600 or in Franklin County, call (509) 545-3546.

About Energy Northwest                                                                                                    

Energy Northwest develops, owns and operates a diverse mix of electricity generating resources, including hydro, solar and wind projects – and the Northwest’s only nuclear energy facility. These projects provide enough reliable, affordable and environmentally respon­sible energy to power more than a million homes each year, and that carbon-free electricity is provided at the cost of generation. As a Washington state, not-for-profit joint operating agency, Energy Northwest comprises 27 public power member utilities from across the state serving more than 1.5 million ratepayers. The agency continually explores new generation projects to meet its members’ needs. Energy Northwest – www.energy-northwest.com.

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