Ottawa County, MI (WGHN) – Ottawa County Emergency Management and the Local Emergency Planning Committee will conduct a countywide Shelter in Place Exercise in conjunction with the final outdoor warning siren test of the year at noon today.
Why We’re Doing This
The purpose of this exercise is to:
- Remind residents that outdoor warning sirens are all-hazard devices, not just “tornado sirens.”
- Reinforce the message: If you hear the sirens, go inside and seek more information.
- Provide an opportunity for citizens, schools, and businesses to practice how to shelter in place during a chemical emergency.
- Build Ottawa County’s overall preparedness to respond to hazardous chemical incidents.
Why It Matters
Ottawa County is home to many industries that manufacture, store, or transport chemicals, including those used in agriculture, food production, and refrigeration. While rare, accidental chemical releases can happen—and knowing how to respond could be critical to protecting your health and safety.
What to Do on October 3
When the sirens sound at 12:00 p.m.:
- Go indoors.
- Close and lock all windows and doors.
- Shut down air-handling equipment (AC, furnaces, fans).
- If able, seal gaps around doors and windows to limit drafts.
- Stay inside until you receive the “all clear.” The all clear is when you feel you have successfully completed the exercise.
We recognize participation will vary. Some may fully practice these steps; others may use the time to discuss or plan what they would do in a real emergency. Schools, businesses, and county buildings are encouraged to take part at a level that makes sense for them.
Learn More
Ottawa County has developed quick reference guides and tutorial videos to help residents and organizations prepare. Visit miottawa.org/sheriff/em/lepc/shelter-in-place for resources.
Comments