India-Pakistan tensions: Why you will hear a loud war siren on May 7…, what it means and how to react?
If you suddenly hear a loud and unsettling siren on May 7, don’t worry — it’s not an actual emergency. It’s part of a mock drill organized to prepare for situations like war or air attacks. For the first time since the 1971 war, the Indian government has announced such a large-scale simulation.
Here’s everything you need to know about this “war siren” — where it’s installed, what it sounds like, how far it can be heard, and what you should do when it goes off.
Where are war sirens installed?
These sirens are usually placed at:
- Government buildings
- Police headquarters
- Fire stations
- Military bases
- Crowded public areas in cities
They’re mounted at higher locations to make sure the sound travels as far as possible. In cities like Delhi and Noida, they’re likely to be installed in high-alert zones. In the future, every major city may have them.
What does a war siren sound like?
A war siren is a high-volume alert system designed to grab attention in emergencies like war or airstrikes. It has a distinct rising and falling wail, unlike the continuous sound of ambulance or vehicle horns. This pattern helps people instantly recognize it as an emergency alert.
What should you do when it goes off?
Since this is a drill, you don’t need to panic. The purpose is to teach citizens how to stay calm and respond correctly during a real emergency. Listen to official instructions, and take it as an opportunity to learn how to protect yourself and your family.
What does a war siren sound like and how far can it be heard?
The sound of a war siren is extremely loud and intense. It typically follows a cyclic pattern — the pitch gradually rises, then falls, and this up-down rhythm repeats for a few minutes. This pattern makes it instantly recognizable and different from normal vehicle or ambulance sirens.
In terms of loudness, war sirens can reach 120 to 140 decibels — louder than an ambulance siren, which usually measures between 110 to 120 decibels. The sound can travel up to 2 to 5 kilometers, depending on the surroundings and weather conditions.
When was the war siren last used in India?
India has used war sirens during key conflicts:
- 1962 during the war with China
- 1965 and 1971 during wars with Pakistan
- 1999 Kargil conflict, especially in border regions
Back then, they were installed in cities like Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, and Amritsar to alert citizens of incoming danger.
What should you do when the siren sounds?
If you hear a war siren:
- Do not panic, especially during the drill.
- Move away from open areas and seek shelter indoors.
- Go to a safe building, preferably with sturdy walls or a basement.
- Stay alert by following updates on TV, radio, or government apps.
- Avoid rumors and always follow official instructions.
How much time do you have to take shelter?
In real emergency scenarios, people are expected to reach a safe place within 5 to 10 minutes after the first siren. That’s why drills like these are important — they train people to respond quickly, calmly, and correctly.
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