This cache is also near one of the Chatham Emergency Management Agency (CEMA) warning sirens. It is used to notify residents of danger within their community.
Currently there are 60 sirens installed, which cover 95% of Chatham County. Warning sirens are used in Chatham County to notify people about ALL hazards (such as hazardous materials, fires, explosions, tornadoes) that would require the public to act to ensure their safety. The Chatham Emergency Management Agency installed the warning sirens in or near outdoor recreation areas and where a large number of people typically gather.
The sirens have an effective range of two miles in diameter. At 100 feet, the sirens are heard at 129 decibels (the equivalent sound level of a jet engine taking off). At one mile, they're heard at 70 decibels (the equivalent sound level of a normal conversation).
Each siren makes the sound of one long wail which is distinctly different from the short, repetitive wails of fire engine truck sirens or police car sirens. The alert tone is a continuous 3-minute sounding siren.
If you are OUTSIDE when you hear the siren to take refuge immediately inside of a sturdy building. Once inside, monitor emergency advisories by listening to NOAA weather radios (strongly recommended), commercial radio or televised newscasts.
The Chatham Emergency Management Agency conducts monthly tests of County warning sirens. On the first Wednesday of each month, the outdoor warning sirens are briefly activated at 12:00 noon. This program is designed to maintain a reliable warning system and to meet State and Federal testing guidelines. In the event of bad weather, the test will be cancelled to avoid confusion.