Montreal to test its warning sirens this morning

The City of Montreal will conduct its annual warning siren test this morning to raise awareness among residents living near these establishments and inform them of how to protect themselves in the event of an incident involving the release of a toxic substance.

The exercise also serves to validate the proper functioning of the equipment and the preparedness of all emergency responders.

Between 8:30 a.m. and noon, the nine participating plants will sound their sirens in turn and according to a predefined schedule.

“Protecting the public is paramount,” said Alain Vaillancourt, Public Safety Officer on the Executive Committee, in a news release.

“It is essential that they be prepared to react in the event of a toxic substance leak.”

The siren is calling: Everyone take shelter!

The purpose of the public alert sirens is to notify people outside to quickly take shelter inside by entering the nearest building.

The City said that following these instructions will help ensure everyone’s safety and facilitate the work of first responders:

• Quickly enter the nearest building
• Close doors and windows, as well as the ventilation;
• Do not pick up children from school to avoid putting yourself or them in danger
• Avoid overloading phone lines
• Follow the instructions of authorities

These sirens emit a rising and falling sound lasting three minutes and are heard within the potential exposure radius.

In the event of an actual or imminent industrial accident, the activation of the alert siren would be followed by the broadcast of messages via various communication tools, which could include social media, the City’s “Notices and Alerts” system, the Civil Security automated call service, the Québec En Alerte messaging system, and press releases.

To find out the detailed schedule for the emergency siren test, visit the City of Montreal website.