Emergency Warning & Notification Systems

Before, during and after a disaster, it is critical that you listen for the most local, up-to-date information from emergency officials, such as:

  • Details about evacuation routes
  • How to safely stay where you are
  • Locations of evacuation shelters
  • Orders to evacuate
  • Weather warnings and watches
  • Where to find assistance

Comprehensive Approach

Garland residents have many ways to receive warnings, alerts and critical disaster information. The City of Garland uses a comprehensive approach to a warning that uses as many of the available methods as possible so that we can ensure that we reach the greatest number of residents. Each one of the systems has unique capabilities and limitations, so it is crucial that you have several ways to receive the warnings.

Ways to Stay Informed

Warning Devices & Methods

Our comprehensive warning system can only be effective if you understand the benefits and limitations of the alerting methods available. Many warning devices and methods available to you. We recommend that you take advantage of as many of them as possible. No one warning method is perfect and no one warning method can be guaranteed never to fail. By relying on one single method, such as the sounding of the sirens or the receiving information solely from broadcast meteorologists, you risk missing a warning if that system fails. 

By taking a systematic approach and getting information from more than one source, you are much more likely to receive the warning, even if there is a failure in one of the components.

Tips

We strongly recommend that you consider the following:

  • Purchase a weather alert radio if you don't already have one.
  • Subscribe to a wireless email alerting system to receive alerts on your cell phone.
  • Rely on the sirens only for an outdoor warning.
  • Turn to broadcast radio or television for details and follow-up information.