The emergency siren in Altona is being taken up a level. Crews were on site at the Altona Fire Hall Wednesday afternoon, attaching the siren to a taller pole. CAO Dan Gagne tells PembinaValleyOnline.com that this will bring the siren closer to the recommended height with the hope of increasing its range.

He explains this issue was discussed within the Emergency Operations Centre Committee last year, under the leadership of former Emergency Coordinator Bob Stoesz. Gagne adds prior to Fire Chief Irv Braun's retirement, he made a point of continuing that discussion when the new coordinator stepped into the role earlier this year.  The decision was made to get the work done this fall so that the siren would be ready for use next spring/summer.

Gagne adds once the siren is installed, it will be tested to ensure it is functioning properly.