Join

Unlike the past, residents along the Occoquan should hear the dam siren test

OCCOQUAN — A loud noise is expected to rattle residents along the Occoquan River.

Fairfax Water will test the Occoquan Dam Siren from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Wednesday, Nov. 14. Residents, they say, shouldn’t be concerned.

These sirens are in place as a safety measure in case the dam ever fails or is severely damaged. Tests of the siren system have been conducted regularly since it was first installed in 2012; however, unlike the upcoming Nov. 14 test, residents couldn’t hear these tests.

The Nov. 14 diagnostic test is required to ensure functionality of the updated communications system,” said Susan Miller, Fairfax Water public affairs manager. “It is part of an educational campaign to create awareness by residents and business owners about the presence of the siren system.”

Anyone who lives next to the Occoquan River between Belmont Bay and the Town of Occoquan is considered “in the impact zone.” Those in the “impact zone” must immediately evacuate to higher ground if the dam ever breaks down.

Some people may be able to hear the siren even if they are not in affected areas. Below is a map of affected areas.

Sirens are a very outdated way of sending out a warning; however, sometimes older techniques work.

“When we worked with the communities closest to the dam, namely the Town of Occoquan, it was the Town’s feeling that a siren system would be the most effective and desired form of communication to alert people in the extremely unlikely event of a dam failure,” Miller said.

In addition to the siren alert system, residents and businesses can choose to receive alerts on their phones as well. To sign up for text alerts, people can go to www.fairfaxcounty.gov/alerts or www.pwcgov.org/pwcan.

Not only is this text alert system a precaution against dam failure, but it also provides weather, traffic, and general county news.

Recent Stories

The Stafford County Sheriff’s Office needs your help identifying this individual involved in a recent larceny in Stafford Market Place.

On April 13, the suspect, identified as Sartisha Elexus Carter, who was sought in connection to the attempted assault that was reported to have occurred at the Bayvue Apartments located in the 1300 block of East Longview Drive in Woodbridge on March 24, was arrested.

At the recent Prince William Board of County Supervisors meeting, which convened to discuss and finalize the upcoming fiscal year’s budget, a series of significant decisions were reached during the budget markup session.

The Town of Dumfries of Virginia is honored to announce its participation as an official stop on the National League of Cities (NLC) Centennial Roadshow: 100 Years, 100 Cities.

Are you feeling overwhelmed by life’s challenges? Do stress and anxiety seem to dominate your thoughts? At Peaceful Mind Solutions, we understand that navigating mental health can be daunting, but you don’t have to do it alone.

Our team of compassionate therapists is here to guide you on your journey toward inner peace and emotional well-being. With a client-centered approach, we tailor our therapy sessions to meet your unique needs and goals. Whether you’re struggling with depression, coping with trauma, or simply seeking personal growth, we provide a safe and supportive space for healing and growth.

Embark on a path of self-discovery with our comprehensive range of therapy services, including cognitive-behavioral therapy, mindfulness practices, and holistic approaches. Our experienced therapists are dedicated to helping you cultivate resilience, develop coping skills, and foster a greater sense of self-awareness.

Read More

Submit your own Community Post here.

Are you facing life’s challenges, feeling overwhelmed, or seeking personal growth? Embrace the path to emotional well-being with our expert psychotherapy services!

Why Choose Us?

Our team of compassionate and experienced psychotherapists is here to guide you on your journey to inner peace, self-discovery, and positive change. We provide a safe and supportive environment where you can explore your thoughts and feelings without judgment.

Read More

Submit your own Community Post here.

Free Irish Music Concert

Welcoming Spring with music from the Emerald Isle, the New Dominion Choraliers offer a FREE concert on Saturday, April 27 at 7:30 p.m. at the First United Presbyterian Church of Dale City.

Joined by Legacy Brass and members of Old

Spring Ceili: An Irish Music Festival

The New Dominion Choraliers of Prince William County and McGrath Morgan Academy of Irish Dance invite you to join them at our Ceili, a grand celebration of Irish music and dance.

A gathering of performance groups throughout Prince William County

×

Subscribe to our mailing list