Podlasie Replaces Alarm Sirens; New Ones Will Speak to Residents

The Podlaskie Voivodeship is undergoing a significant upgrade of its public warning and alarm system, allocating 8.5 million Polish zloty (PLN) from the EU's Internal Security Fund for 2021-2027. This modernization aims to enhance the region's preparedness for various emergencies.

“

The new sirens are important because they can broadcast not only a very audible sound signal but also a voice signal.

Currently, there are 376 alarm sirens across the Podlaskie Voivodeship, with 99 located in Białystok. As part of the upgrade, 35 sirens in Białystok will be replaced, with 26 already installed and nine scheduled for replacement in 2027. A key feature of the new sirens is their ability to broadcast voice messages in addition to audible signals, significantly improving communication with residents during critical events.

President of Białystok, Tadeusz Truskolaski, highlighted the importance of these upgrades, especially in light of recent events. He referenced the incident in the Lublin region where an unidentified object entered Polish airspace and the Russian attacks in Lviv, underscoring the need for a robust and responsive warning system. Truskolaski assured that the Government Center for Security (RCB) can reach every resident with information, fostering a greater sense of comfort and security.

“

We must be prepared to have a (warning) system, but also for residents to be able to read these signals, which is why there are test alarms and information.

The comprehensive modernization program, extending until the end of 2027, includes not only siren replacements but also the establishment of a unified communication system for the voivodeship office, local governments, and all emergency services. This system is designed to function even if traditional communication channels fail. Additionally, antenna masts for communication will be replaced in four districts.

“

Of course, the Government Center for Security has the ability to reach every resident with such information, and I believe that thanks to this system, our residents will simply feel more comfortable and secure.

The State Fire Service is also modernizing its internal alarm system, with 73 new sirens capable of emitting voice messages installed in PSP and OSP units across Podlaskie, funded by over 2.3 million PLN from the National Reconstruction Plan and the Ministry of Interior and Public Administration program. The sirens will be tested this Saturday at 5 PM to commemorate the 82nd anniversary of the Warsaw Uprising.

“

Warning and alarming is the task of public administration: the government and local governments, but various services that have appropriate sound devices can also carry them out.