OU recently installed three new tornado sirens that will provide better warning for university dorms, OU Public Affairs said Tuesday.

The sirens will be tested at noon every Friday.

"The installation of the tornado sirens on top of Cate Center's quad three, Cross C and Couch Cafeteria will provide increased tornado alert coverage in the residence hall area," said Amy Holt, assistant director of University Housing for Residential Life.

Tornado sirens already existed on the OU campus, said OU Department of Public Safety Lt. Bruce Chan. Sirens are already located at the Duck Pond, South Greek area and Yorkshire Apartments. The new sirens aim to improve the tornado alert system.

Other tornado precautions include tornado shelter plans prepared by OUDPS for all dorms, Chan said. Each building has areas designated as most safe by Architecture and Engineering Services on campus. Basements such as those found in Adams, Cate, Couch and Walker centers are recommended. Chan also advised students to stay away from glass windows during tornadoes.

"The idea generally is to get away from exterior walls," Chan said.

The Oklahoma tornado season runs from the mid-March to the mid-May. The City of Moore, hit by a tornado on May 3, 1999, is also preparing for the season.

Moore is replacing all but two of its sirens, said Gayland Kitch, director of emergency management and communications for Moore.

Kitch said it takes a mix of different warning devises such as sirens, television warnings and weather radios to have an effective warning system.

He said Oklahoma has an excellent system, but individuals still need to do their part.

"It's incumbent upon each individual to be aware of their surroundings," Kitch said. "(Each should) be aware of the weather around them and take appropriate actions when warnings are issued."

Jon Salmon, University College freshman and Walker Center resident, said although he doesn't feel threatened by tornadoes, the new sirens are a good thing for the housing area.

"The increased awareness will probably help out and make people feel safer," Salmon said.
hello there & you too