We received the following notice from Brown University:

The City of Providence has recently completed the installation of a Siren System in the Port of Providence.  It is similar to Brown’s Siren System which will be used to alert people in the proximity of the Port for life threatening emergencies where there is no advance warning and it is imperative that people immediately seek shelter indoors.  The first test of the siren system is scheduled for October 23rd between noon at 1:00 pm as part of a Providence Local Emergency Planning Committee exercise. 

Please share this information with the occupants of Brown owned buildings in the Jewelry District who may hear this siren so they are aware of this scheduled exercise and siren system test.  We do not want anyone to be confused in any way should they hear the city’s test.  No action is necessary during this test.

Information from Peter Gaynor, Director of Providence Emergency Management Agency:
 
Port of Providence Emergency Siren Warning System.  The system will be activated only for life-threatening emergencies when there is no advance warning and it is imperative that people immediately seek shelter indoors. The PPESWS will not sound for most emergencies that may occur on or near the Port of Providence. Non-spontaneous weather events, such as a blizzard or hurricane, would not warrant activation of the system. Emergencies that would likely require PPESWS activation include a hostile intruder, a large chemical release or unpredictable natural disasters such as a tornado.

For information regarding the City’s Siren System go to:  http://www.readyprov.com/Emergency_Sirens%20.php

For information regarding Brown’s Siren System go to:  http://brown.edu/Administration/EHS/emergency_preparedness/alarm_system.html