News : Benton County Emergency Management to Conduct Monthly Outdoor Warning Siren Test

Benton County Emergency Management Agency announces that outdoor warning sirens for the communities Belle Plaine, Garrison, Mount Auburn, Norway, Van Horne, and Vinton will be tested on the first Wednesday of every month at 8:45 a.m. There still are a few communities that need to approve this testing schedule and once they approve the schedule, they will have their sirens added to this list of communities. The sirens will sound for approximately three (3) minutes during the test.

This monthly testing ensures that the sirens remain in proper working condition and familiarizes residents with the sound and purpose of the system.

The testing schedule also aligns with the long-standing practice of testing the Duane Arnold Energy Center siren system, which continues to be used in several Benton County communities, including Urbana, Shellsburg, and Atkins. Coordinating Benton County's siren testing with the Duane Arnold system provides consistency, improves reliability, and strengthens public awareness.

Why Siren Testing Matters

1. Reliability - Regular testing ensures the sirens are fully operational in the event of an actual emergency.

2. Public Awareness - Routine activation helps residents recognize and understand the siren tones, ensuring they know how to respond if a real emergency occurs.

Benton County Emergency Management reminds residents that when sirens sound outside of scheduled testing times, it is a signal to immediately seek shelter and tune into local radio, television, or official alerts for information.