Vanderbilt University Public Safety will conduct an off-cycle test of the Big Voice Outdoor Siren System on Saturday, March 14, at noon. This brief test is necessary to complete scheduled maintenance and ensure that the system stays fully operational. If Vanderbilt experiences inclement weather at the scheduled time, the test will be rescheduled.
During the test, community members may hear the sirens sound for a short period. No action is required.
Why an off-cycle test?
Our outdoor sirens are a key part of Vanderbilt’s emergency notification system. The university routinely tests them on the first Saturday of each month, but checks are sometimes needed after maintenance or equipment upgrades to confirm everything is working properly. All of the tests help ensure that the system is ready to perform when it’s needed most.
Spring is severe weather season
Severe weather in Middle Tennessee peaks during the spring months and can include:
- Strong thunderstorms
- Tornadoes
- Damaging straight-line winds
- Large hail
- Flash flooding
Seasonal safety tips
As we head into this period, please keep these preparedness steps in mind:
- Make sure you’re signed up for AlertVU notifications to get timely emergency messages.
- Identify your severe weather safe space in your residence hall, office or classroom. Interior rooms or hallways on the lowest level—away from windows—offer the best protection.
- Stay weather aware. Monitor storm forecasts from the National Weather Service and local media, especially during risk days.
- Have multiple ways to get warnings, including phone alerts, NOAA Weather Radio and local news.
For more information, visit the Vanderbilt Public Safety emergency guideline website.
