New Tornado Siren Relief To Parents, Teachers

HALL COUNTY, Ga. — A new tornado siren outside Oakwood Elementary School in south Hall County is a relief to parents and teachers.

Just three years ago, a strong tornado slammed into the school and there was no warning.

"It was very, very scary because we had teachers and children in the building," said teacher Becky Jarrad.

Jarrad stood with Channel 2 Action News reporter Tom Regan to get a close look at the revolving siren, which is mounted on top of a tall utility pole. It is one of three sirens going up in Oakwood.

City Manager Stan Brown told Regan that the siren will fill a gap and alert more than 10,000 residents in the area when a tornado is coming.

"That's our purpose, to do everything we can to protect our citizens, especially the children," said Brown.

Each siren can be heard from a mile away. The $60,000 cost to construct the siren is partially covered by a grant from the Georgia Emergency Management Agency.

An elementary school parent told Regan it gives her peace of mind.

"Makes me feel safe knowing my child is safe here," said Tricia Johnson.

WSBTV