Saturday, February 2, 2013

Sirens for Tornado Warning

We frequently receive calls asking if we sell tornado alert sirens.  We don't.  The reason being that we do not think they are effective.  Outdoor sirens are a relic of a time gone by before the general use of air conditioning, virtually sound proof vehicles, and every third person you see with something in their ear. 

The coded signals used to distinguish the different types of emergencies are totally useless.  Most people wouldn't recognize the difference between the mid week test, a tornado, or an invasion by aliens.  The cost is beyond reason, and maintenance is a nightmare.  If any type of mass notification system is used, it should be capable of creating a loud alert followed by a voice message.  Having said that, we will agree that there are places and times where mass notification is needed.

Recreational areas (amphitheaters, beach areas, campgrounds, golf courses, parks, swimming pools, tennis courts, etc) should be equipped with some way to notify people in the event of severe weather or other catastrophic events, but not at an average cost of over $25,000 per siren location.  Don't take our word for it.  Click here for the words of one who expresses our feeling far better than we.  Now, let's look at an affordable and efficient alternative. It's called a LoudMouth!


LoudMouth is an American made wireless Public Address system.  It is used in industrial plants, as you will see in a video available by clicking here, on University campus grounds (a case study is available by clicking here), and as a part of school safety systems when integrated into the school intercom system.  LoudMouth can be accessed and controlled from an ordinary VHF or UHF 2-way radio, and it can provide both an alerting tone and a voice notification message.

There are two versions of the LoudMouth - one with speaker (or speakers) and a model that connects to an existing PA system where wired speakers are already installed.  Both of them are priced well UNDER a thousand dollars!  A brochure on the LoudMouth is available by clicking here, and if you would like more information on how easily the LPA non-speaker model can be integrated into an existing PA system, click here.

You can install LoudMouth anywhere that AC power is available.  Since the current requirements are so moderate, the LoudMouth can be powered by low cost solar panels if desired.  No heavy duty poles or towers or required.  Lightweight LoudMouth can be mounted virtually anywhere without special skills or tools.  Want to see a live demonstration?  Just give us a call at 800.489.2611 or drop us an email to ServingU@falcondirect.com.  We'll be looking forward to hearing from you!